Description
German Ehrenkreuz des Weltkrieges 1914/1918 für Frontkämpfer, commonly known as the Hindenburg Cross with Swords. The bronze-finished cross features the dates “1914 1918” within a raised laurel wreath. Crossed swords appear behind the central cross and identify this as the combatant version. The medal shows age-related patina, oxidation, finish wear, and light surface marks. The suspension ring remains present, but no ribbon accompanies this example. Please carefully review all photographs for the condition, markings, construction, and completeness of the medal.
Germany established the Honor Cross of the World War on July 13, 1934 to recognize service during World War I. The crossed-sword version recognized veterans who had served as combatants. The reverse of this example bears the maker code “G.5.” Documented period examples of this decoration carry the same G.5 marking. This WWI Honor Cross 1914–1918 represents an official German veterans’ service decoration rather than a wartime-issued World War I medal. Its clear maker mark and surviving suspension ring add interest for collectors of German military decorations.
