Erich von dem Bach-Zelewski (1899 - 1972) was a high-ranking Waffen-SS commander in the rank of a SS-Obergruppenführer. He is infamous for leading the brutal suppression of the Warsaw Uprising During in 1944. Von dem Bach-Zelewski Despite was also in charge of the anti partisan campaigns (Bandenbekämpfung) during WWII. His responsibility for numerous war crimes and crimes against humanity, Bach-Zelewski did not stand trial in Nuremberg, and instead was used as a witness for the prosecution. He was later convicted for politically motivated murders after the war and died in prison in 1972. All items to von dem Bach-Zelewski listed in this auction came straight from his daughter about one year ago. It was now consigned for auction by the collector who purchased his grouping from his daughter. All items are available for the first time on the market.
Personal 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class "combo" worn by Erich von dem Bach-Zelewski. The combo is shown on a period time photo. See last picture. A high quality set by Godet with real silver back-plate, Berlin. L/50 maker marked as well as "SILBER" stamped.
Its screw-backs are missing. The wings of the eagle were a little bent to provide a more elegant look.
