Beautiful Iron Cross 1st class 1939 in the needle marked with the number 26 for the rarer maker BH Mayer from Pforzheim.

The Iron Cross 1st Class 1939 was awarded to German soldiers who had distinguished themselves remarkably by their courage, bravery and dedication during combat operations. It was one of the most prestigious awards within the German armed forces during World War II.

This insignia was in the form of a black enamel cross with a silver border and was worn on the left breast pocket of the uniform. It could be awarded to soldiers of all ranks, from common soldiers to officers, based on their extraordinary performance on the battlefield. The recipients of the Iron Cross 1st Class were considered extremely courageous and skilled soldiers.

During the Second World War, approximately 300.000 copies of the Iron Cross 1st Class 1939 were awarded.