WW2 German Iron Cross 1st Class Maker L/11 Wilhelm Deumer

The WW2 German Iron Cross 1st Class Maker L/11 was a military decoration awarded for acts of bravery or leadership during combat in the Second World War. This example is attributed to Wilhelm Deumer, a recognized maker whose identification mark, L/11, is stamped on the reverse of the piece. The Iron Cross 1st Class features a blackened magnetic iron core surrounded by a silvered frame, with a pin-back design for wear on the uniform. The front displays a swastika at the center, with the date “1939” beneath, referencing the year of institution for the World War II version of the award. The reverse side is plain except for the maker’s code. The Iron Cross 1st Class was worn above the left breast pocket, signifying a higher recognition than the 2nd Class. Pieces by Wilhelm Deumer are noted for their quality of manufacture, consistent construction methods, and accurate maker’s markings.