What does an Iron Cross signify?

What does an Iron Cross signify?

The Iron Cross symbolizes the courage of the old Prussian warriors, the great victories of the Bismarck era and the valor of the German soldiers of the First World War. Officially the fascist symbolism was removed from the Iron Cross in 1957.

Does the Iron Cross still exist?

The Iron Cross still rates as Germany’s most famous military insignia, but its role has been reduced to that of a black and white emblem on the aircraft, tanks and warships of the post-war armed forces. It was dropped as a medal in 1945.

How much is a ww2 Iron Cross worth?

Knights of the Iron Cross: A History 1939-1945

Does Germany still use the Balkenkreuz?

Its use resumed, with new standardized dimensions, from the beginning of the Nazi Germany’s air force (the Luftwaffe) in 1935, as part of the new Wehrmacht unified German military forces founded in mid-March 1935.

Why is the Iron Cross so popular?

The Iron Cross has been popular with many bikers, hot rodders, skinheads and others, using German iconic militaria to promote a tough-guy image, or as a symbol of rebellion or non-conformity. In the 1960s, the Iron Cross was adopted by American surfers, who started wearing medals plundered by their fathers.

What does 1813 Iron Cross mean?

The reverse of the 1870, 1914 and 1939 series of Iron Crosses have the year “1813” appearing on the lower arm, symbolizing the year the award was created. The 1813 decoration also has the initials “FW” for King Friedrich Wilhelm III, while the next two have a “W” for the respective kaisers, Wilhelm I and Wilhelm II.

What does a black Iron Cross mean?

Medal and ribbon design The ribbon color for the 1939 EKII was black/white/red/white/black. Since the Iron Cross was issued over several different periods of German history, it was annotated with the year indicating the era in which it was issued.