*Imperial German, WW1 - 1934 Issue, Honour Cross of the World War 1914–1918 (Hindenburg Cross), Combatant’s Version with Swords, Maker Marked “W.K.”*
A German Honour Cross of the World War 1914–1918, commonly known as the Hindenburg Cross, awarded to front-line veterans of the First World War.
The decoration takes the form of a bronze coloured cross pattée with crossed swords between the arms, signifying front-line combat service. At the centre is a circular medallion bearing the dates “1914 / 1918”, surrounded by a laurel wreath symbolising victory and remembrance. The reverse is plain and stamped “W.K.”, identifying the maker as Wilhelm Kolwitz of Bergedorf, Germany, a known manufacturer of these awards during the early Third Reich period. The medal is suspended from its correct ribbon of black, white and red, reflecting the national colours of Imperial Germany. The ribbon remains mounted in the traditional triangular German style.
Approx. Measurements – Cross width: approx. 3.7 cm.
History Note:
The Honour Cross of the World War 1914–1918 was instituted on 13 July 1934 by President Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg. It was the first official German state decoration created specifically to recognise the service of veterans of the First World War.
Three principal versions were issued: - With crossed swords (Frontkämpferkreuz) – awarded to combat veterans who served at the front. - Without swords – awarded to non-combatant veterans. - Widow’s Cross (in blackened iron) – issued to widows and parents of those killed in the war.
More than 6 million combatant crosses were awarded, making it one of the most widely issued German decorations of the period. Despite the large numbers produced, maker-marked examples remain collectible, particularly when retaining their original ribbons.
*Condition*
Good overall condition. The medal retains a consistent bronze finish with light surface wear and minor spotting consistent with age. The ribbon remains intact and correctly mounted, showing some light fraying to the edges. The reverse maker’s mark “W.K.” is clearly struck. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
