Verdun Cross (Hamburg version)

CATEGORY: Version

SKU: 02.WMR.0311.101.01.000

Estimated market value:

$150 USD

  • Verdun Cross (Hamburg version) Obverse
  • Verdun Cross (Hamburg version) Reverse
  • Verdun Cross (Hamburg version) Obverse
  • Verdun Cross (Hamburg version) Reverse
  • Verdun Cross (Hamburg version) Obverse
  • Verdun Cross (Hamburg version) Mark

Estimated market value:

$150 USD

Attributes

  • Country
    Germany
  • Makers
    Fleck & Sohn, Hamburg
  • Composition
    Silvered/Enamelled
  • Inscription
    Obv: VERDUN 1914 1918
  • Size
    39.5x39.5mm

Physical Description and Item Details


Two-piece construction alloy with gilt-edged black and white enamels; the obverse a Maltese shaped cross with a central gilt-edged black enamel medallion inscribed in gilt with “Verdun, 1914-1918”; the reverse plain; maker marked “Fleck & Sohn, Hamburg 3” and “Ges. Gesch” (for gesetzlich geschützt = legally protected, i.e. a registered design) on reverse; double loops for ribbon suspension; measuring 39.59 mm (w) x 39.59 mm (h); weighing 10.7 grams; in overall very fine condition.

History


The Verdun Cross was instituted by the Honorary Union of the Saxon World War Participants, a Veterans' Association in Saxony.

It was founded to commemorate and reward German soldiers who participated in the Battle of Verdun.

The cross was manufactured in Düsseldorf and Hamburg.

The Düsseldorf crosses were produced in 1932 by Eugen Billig, and they are in the shape of an equilateral Teutonic Cross.

The Hamburg crosses were produced in 1933-1934 by Fleck & Sohn, and they are the shape of an eight-pointed Maltese Cross.

Since it was an unofficial award conferred during the Weimar Republic, veterans were required to purchase the cross themselves.

Unofficial crossed swords may be featured on the ribbon to emphasize the "combat merit" of the recipient.

There were approximately 3,000 crosses awarded in total.

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