Here’s an item I bought as a curiousity, knowing full well that it is a fantasy piece and of no real value whatsoever: A 2008 EK1!

These crosses (always the 1st class of the award) often show up on online auctions and dealer sites, usually with the claim that they were protoype specimens commissioned when the petition to re-introduce the Iron Cross was on the table or even that these are unofficial awards for veterans.

Said petition took place in 2007 and was (predictably) unsuccessful, although in 2008, the Bundeswehr’s new Ehrenkreuz für Tapferkeit was instituted.

Apparently - and quite amusingly - these so-called "2008 Iron Crosses" were based on a design made by the satirical magazine Titanic* in reaction to that new decoration for bravery.

In any case, it is safe to say that no prototype 2008 EKs were ever ordered by the Federal Government and that these crosses are pure fantasy pieces and should be treated as such. (I bought mine for some 20 Euros including postage, which I found acceptable, but some sellers offer these alleged "rare prototype pieces" for greatly inflated prices.)

*) see: http://www.titanic-magazin.de/filead…stkreuz-pk.jpg

Right, here it is. The cross is of simple, one-piece construction and unimpressive quality.

Obverse view:

Reverse view:

Obverse detail showing the Federal Eagle and the year "2008". Note the poor paint job:

Click to enlarge the picture