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Oak Leaves with Swords ribbon device, in silver finish, is a reproduction of the metal attachment used with the higher grade of the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross known in German as Eichenlaub mit Schwertern. It was not a separate medal, but an additional device worn on the neck ribbon above the cross to identify the class of the decoration.
The design combines two highly recognizable elements: oak leaves, traditionally associated with strength, endurance and military honour, and crossed swords, a long-established symbol of combat-related distinction in European orders and decorations. Together, they formed one of the most visually distinctive additions to the Knight’s Cross system.
From a technical perspective, historical examples were made in silver, often bearing fineness marks such as “900” and manufacturer codes. One collector reference describes an example marked “21” for Gebrüder Godet & Co., Berlin, with silver construction and natural patina. Modern reproductions follow the same general appearance, with raised oak leaves, visible veins and crossed swords, but are intended for display, reenactment or uniform completion.
The Oak Leaves with Swords represented one of the rarer grades of the Knight’s Cross. Specialist sources cite approximately 150 awards, which explains why this small ribbon device has become such a recognizable and studied component within German military decoration collecting.
Curiosity: identification guides separate the official award versions into several closely related grades: Oak Leaves, Oak Leaves with Swords, Oak Leaves with Swords and Diamonds, and the extremely rare gold variant. On original pieces, details such as edge polishing, leaf texture, maker marks and silver fineness stamps are essential for classification.
