German Service Awards

[sobel]

Two Iron Crosses, 1st and 2nd class, both by the same maker Wachtler & Lange, makers mark 100.

The 2nd class is what is generally called a "Rattler", this is where the inner iron core is not firmly gripped by the silver rims and so moves slightly, so when you shake it, it rattles. The Ist class is an early war version with a brass core.

Contrary to popular belief, Brass cored Iron crosses were not produced specifically for the navy, (Salt water etc).

Non-Iron cores were, I believe not allowed later in the war.

regards

Sobel

[sobel]

Originally Posted by sobel

He obviously had little problem with wearing his Nazi version of the decoration many years after the war although strictly forbidden, especially in Germany

regards

Nice wartime photo of Rudel wearing his Golden Oaks and Diamonds