German Republic. An Iron Cross 1939 First Class, Alternative 1957 Version

(Eisernes Kreuz 1939 I. Klasse, 1957 Version). A cross pattée of multi-piece construction with a blackened iron core (magnetic) within a ribbed border; the obverse with a raised central oak branch consisting of three leaves, with the re-institution date “1939” in raised numbering on the lower arm; the reverse plain, with a slender banjo style vertical pinback, a barrel hinge, and a flat wire catch; measuring 44.10 mm (w) x 43.99 mm (h); weighing 16.1 grams; in overall virtually mint condition.