Germany, Luftwaffe. An 1939 Iron Cross II Class, with 8 May 1945 Document, to Stabsgefreiter Fritz Demtröder

(Eisernes Kreuz 1939 II. Klasse). Reinstituted 1 September 1939. (1939-1945 issue). Constructed of iron and silver, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a blackened magnetic iron core within a ribbed silver frame, the obverse with a central mobile swastika, the six o’clock arm with a restitution date of “1939”, the reverse six o’clock arm with an initial institution date of “1813”, unmarked, measuring 44.14 mm (w) x 47.61 mm (h), weighing 18.6 grams, accompanied by its package of issue, constructed of light blue paper stock, the exterior bearing a maker’s mark of “GROßMANN & CO, WIEN 101” and an illegible handwritten name, measuring 70 mm (w) x 110 mm (h), in overall near extremely condition.

Notably accompanying the decoration is its award document, featuring a typewritten form to I./Flak-Regiment 31 (mot), with a handwritten dedication to “STABSGEFR FRITZ DENTRÖDER”, who served with unit staff, awarding the Iron Cross II Class on 8 May 1945, certified by the handwritten signature of an unidentified Major and Company Commander, notably featuring an additional Feldpost stamp issued with the correct number of “50677” and with the eagle and swastika deliberately obscured with blue ink owing to Germany’s defeat, measuring 21 cm (w) x 13.5 cm (h), demonstrating creasing and fatigue throughout, a rare award document issued on the day of Germany’s surrender, in fair condition.