Hindenburg Cross with Swords Value Guide

The Hindenburg Cross with Swords is a significant military decoration instituted in 1934 by Paul von Hindenburg to honor German combatants of the First World War. As the first official service medal for Imperial German soldiers, this bronze variant specifically recognizes those who saw active front-line duty between 1914 and 1918.

What affects the value of Hindenburg Cross with Swords?

• The presence and condition of the original black, white, and red striped ribbon significantly impacts the market price.
• Crispness of the striking and the preservation of the bronze finish, avoiding heavy oxidation or pitting, increases desirability.
• Identification of specific rare manufacturer marks on the reverse can elevate the value for specialized collectors.
• Overall provenance or inclusion in a documented medal bar with other period awards can drive the price toward the higher end of the $75-$100 range.

How to Identify Hindenburg Cross with Swords?

• Look for the distinct crossed swords positioned behind the central laurel wreath, which signifies the combatant status.
• Verify the presence of the specific years '1914' and '1918' centered on the obverse of the bronze cross.
• Check the reverse side for manufacturer marks, which were commonly stamped into the metal by various authorized German makers.
• Examine the ribbon for the correct color pattern of black, white, and red stripes associated with the combatant award.

History of Hindenburg Cross with Swords

The Honour Cross of the World War 1914/1918, commonly known as the Hindenburg Cross, was instituted by Paul von Hindenburg in 1934. It was Germany's first official service medal for soldiers of Imperial Germany who had participated in World War I. This particular variant, with crossed swords, was awarded to combatants who saw active service during the war, distinguishing them from non-combatants or next of kin.