Original German Clasp (Spange) to the Iron Cross Class 1 1939 Bar. N 188. Original German Clasp (Spange) to the Iron Cross Class 1 1939 Bar. N 188. Antiques & Militaria

The Clasp to the Iron Cross (Spange zum Eisernen Kreuz) is a white metal medal clasp displayed on the uniforms of German Wehrmacht personnel who had been awarded the Iron Cross in World War I, and who again qualified for the decoration in World War II. A holder of the 1914 Iron Cross could qualify for the same grade of the 1939 Iron Cross. To permit the two awards to be worn together, a "1939 Clasp" (Spange) was established to be worn with the original 1914 Iron Cross. It depicts a national eagle clutching an oak leaf wreath surrounding a swastika above a trapezoid bearing the year 1939. For the Second Class, the clasp was attached to the ribbon of the 1914 Iron Cross, either on a ribbon bar, or when the ribbon was worn through a tunic button hole. For the First Class, a larger differently proportioned clasp was pinned directly on the upper breast pocket above the Iron Cross 1st class (1914) of the wearer. This pin-back clasp was usually awarded in a presentation case. See 67 (D.014) of Combat Medals of the Third Reich by Christopher Ailsby for reference. In excellent condition, the clasp and pin are intact. The price includes UK delivery. N 188.