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1939 Iron Cross 1st Class to Feldwebel Mensdorf serving with Kampfgruppe z.b.V. 5. The unit was from November 1942 to February 1943 responsible for the supply in Stalingrad.
Three-part construction. Original black color. Non-magnetic brass core. "Engraved" to the reverse "Fw. H.M. Stalino d. 26.12.1942". Made by Ferdinand Hoffstätter, Bonn. "L/19" maker marked. Slightly curved.
A worn badge in good condition.
(Stalino is a town in Ukraine, 1961 renamed in Donezk)
We also offer other awards and certificates of Feldwebel Mensdorf in our 34. Auction. Please note article number 429496 and 429601.
Condition
See description
Historical information
NAME
Order of the Iron Cross 1. Class
DATE OF INSTITUTION
1. September 1939 as the second grade of the re-instituted Order of the Iron Cross
AWARD CRITERIA
The Iron Cross was awarded for particular bravery in the face of the enemy and for outstanding merit in troop leadership. The awarding of a higher grade required the previous awarding of the lower grade. Divisional commanders were authorized to award the Iron Cross 1. Class and stocks were kept at divisional level.
MANUFACTURERS
The Iron Cross 1. Class was produced by at least 26 manufacturers, not including variations amongst the individual companies. The crosses can be found either unmarked, with Präsidialkanzlei number (after the end of 1942 / early1943), or with LDO number for private purchase.
AWARD NUMBERS
Accurate numbers are not known but the closest estimation is around 800,000 - 900,000 awarded and most likely double the number produced.
AWARD DOCUMENTS
The division issued the award document in the format A5 in the name of the Führer and Supreme Commander of the Wehrmacht (after mid-1943 only in the name of the Führer) and was signed by the divisional commander.
WEARING METHOD
The cross was worn on the left breast pocket above any Wound Badge and war badges.
.jpg "1939 Iron Cross 1st Class in LDO case")
