I would very much appreciate if someone could give me some info about a german cross I stumbled on a antiques market. Cross measures 44 mm vertically and horizontally . It also has number 44 engraved on the ring the ribbon goes through. Thanks very much for any info!
That's an Iron Cross 2nd Class. The '44' is the maker's code; in this case Jakob Bengel in Idar-Oberstein. German militaria is probably the most faked set of items out there and I am not knowledgable enough to comment on its authenticity. Someone who can, such as Skipper or Martin Bull, should be around shortly.
Aww schucks, George beat me to it. The same though goes for me, I know just enough to be dangerous, but not enough to say real or fake.
It looks like a good one. Here is another one made by Bengel for comparison. You can also check the black part with a magnet, it should be magnetic. The silver plates and metal part should be three seperate layers http://www.warrelics.eu/forum/1939-eisernes-kreuz-forum/ek2-jakob-bengel-idar-oberstein-22505/
