24″ Railroad Eagle by Wagen – G209

Though labeled a 600mm size eagle and produced by the Pinter foundry, the Wagen example is actually a little larger measuring in at 24 3/4″ inches. It seems odd that this same foundry would have a totally different mold to cast these birds, from that of the more commonly seen LOK 600’s which they also did. The first thing that you no doubt are noticing is the subdued gold color of this eagle. From all indications of the age and wear to this surface covering, I suspect that this was actually done during the period. And in the natural sun light where the photos were taken it certainly looks like gold leaf, which by the way has been observed in the past on some railroad eagles. Though not 100% a scientific analysis, I did my own home test on the residue on the reverse of the wreathed swastika and it showed that the substance is indeed most likely gold leaf. What ever the purpose for this was is unknown, though it certainly has a striking appearance to it. At times we see gold as a color associated with the Heer, and perhaps its has some relevance to that Wehrmacht organization. On the reverse the 3 short threaded studs are present and are shown in the photos. 2 have had the centers drilled most likely by the returning vet to display his souvenir after the war. On the back side the reverse is encrusted and black with age, as nothing has been cleaned nor polished on this eagle. The left wing features the manufacture’s logo, the Wagen designation with size, and finally the chemical compound symbols; GAL – Mg – Si.   An impressive looking eagle to say the least.