Ribbon Bar of the 1939 Iron Cross

Elevate your collection with this authentic Ribbon Bar of the 1939 Iron Cross, a meticulously crafted WWII German military collectible. Expertly embroidered with black, white, and red thread, this ribbon bar was part of the Iron Cross, a prestigious military decoration of Nazi Germany during World War II (1939–1945). Below, we explore its historical significance, material composition, and value for collectors and historians.

Historical Background

The Ribbon Bar of the 1939 Iron Cross was part of the Iron Cross series, reinstituted by Adolf Hitler on September 1, 1939, for WWII. Originating in the Kingdom of Prussia (1813), the Iron Cross was awarded to soldiers for bravery or meritorious service, with over 2.3 million 2nd Class and 300,000 1st Class crosses issued during WWII. Worn on the uniform’s ribbon bar, it was seen on figures like Heinz Guderian. Crafted under RZM standards, this ribbon bar reflects the Third Reich’s military tradition, making it a significant artifact for WWII studies.

Material & Condition

This Ribbon Bar of the 1939 Iron Cross is embroidered with black, white, and red thread, measuring 10 cm by 1 cm and weighing 10g. Designed for attachment to a uniform’s ribbon bar, the thread provides a vibrant, durable display. Authentic period pieces may show slight wear, such as thread fraying or color fading, with consistent stitching indicating wartime production. Collectors should distinguish originals from reproductions, which may use synthetic threads or lack the precision of wartime craftsmanship.

Collector’s Insight

The Ribbon Bar of the 1939 Iron Cross is a valued piece of Third Reich memorabilia, prized for its connection to Nazi Germany’s iconic military decoration. The black, white, and red thread design makes it a focal point for collectors of WWII German military collectibles, particularly those interested in Iron Cross awards and Wehrmacht insignia. Its historical significance lies in its association with the Third Reich’s military honors, appealing to enthusiasts of Nazi Germany’s military history.

This ribbon bar is ideal for military historians, museum curators, and reenactors seeking accurate uniform components for educational displays or living-history events. Given its sensitive historical context, collectors must handle this artifact with respect, using it to educate about WWII’s complexities rather than glorifying the associated ideology. For preservation, store the ribbon bar in an acid-free, archival-quality sleeve or case to protect against moisture, UV light, and thread degradation. Displaying it in a museum-quality shadow box with historical documentation enhances its educational value, offering a tangible link to the era of Nazi Germany’s military awards.