Description
As we all know, WW I saw many efforts to raise money for the German war effort, and for war relief in general. Perhaps best known was where German citizens were asked to give “Gold for Iron.” They donated gold jewelry and other items and received small gifts of iron in return. So when women donated their gold rings, pins, chains, etc., to the war effort, they then proudly displayed iron jewelry that was much cruder in appearance. The program was very popular in WW I Germany. Interestingly enough, this practice did not originate during WW I. The Napoleonic Wars of the early 19th Century were long and difficult for Prussia. Thus, a program of exchanging gold for iron was begun under Princess Mariana’s auspices. We are proud to offer a piece from this earlier war relief effort. The cross measures 1 1/2″ x 1 1/4.” One side bears the date “16 October 1813.” The other side displays “RU:” at the 12 o’clock arm’s top. The phrase “Heil Den” appears in the center. This cross is very thin. Its arms are NOT textured. A small loop appears at the top. It is very delicate and nearly 200-years-old!
