New Zealand Cross

SKU: 02.GBR.0102.101.01

Estimated market value:

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Estimated market value:

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Attributes

country

Great Britain
date of institution

March 10, 1869
makers

Phillips, Brothers & Son, London
remarks

The majority of the original 23 crosses reside in the collections of public institutions, although a small number reside in private collections. Some reproductions are known to have been produced from original dies at the turn of the century, although they do not feature the manufacturer cartouche.

History

The New Zealand Cross was established by the Governor of New Zealand, Sir George Bowen, on March 10, 1869. The Cross was created during the New Zealand Wars (1845-1872) to recognize local volunteers for acts of bravery who were ineligible to receive the Victoria Cross. Bowen had created the award of his own volition and only sought royal approval after the statutes had already been published. This sparked criticism in Britain, as it appeared that Bowen had been intruding on the powers of the Crown. There was however little that the Crown could do but to approve the Cross, as five had already been awarded.

The Cross was conferred upon members of the local militia and armed constabulary as well as upon local volunteers in recognition of acts of bravery in the face of the enemy. The Cross could be awarded more than once to the same recipient, in which case each additional award was represented by a silver clasp worn on the ribbon, but this never occurred. The last Cross was awarded in 1910. Only 23 crosses were ever awarded.

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