THE KNIGHT'S CROSS
WITH OAK LEAVES AND SWORDS

    When the Iron Cross was reinstituted in 1939, the order was filled out by the addition of two important classes: the Knight's Cross, which became Germany's highest award for military achievement, and the Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves, indicating a second award. As the war progressed, more classes were added to the Knight's Cross: Oak Leaves and Swords, then Oak Leaves, Swords and Diamonds.  In the course of the war, about 5000 Knight's Crosses were awarded. 
   The Knight's Cross was awarded for military achievement, not necessarily for valor.  Generals regularly received it for capturing important objectives. Junior officers and enlisted men had to perform remarkable feats of arms to attain a comparable level of military merit.
   Our reproduction Knight’s Crosses are die-struck, not cast, and come with a neck ribbon. At ordinary viewing distance, they are virtually indistinguishable from the genuine article. The Knight’s Cross fits in the presentation case listed for it on the main medals catalog page

1939 Knight's Cross 
with oak leaves and swords 
GRR005.....$22.95

RETURN TO
GERMAN MEDALS PAGE