Description
This exquisite four-place medal bar holds significant historical value, commemorating the courage and bravery of its recipient during World War I and the inter-war period.
Starting from the left, the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class, instituted on August 5th, 1914, was awarded for outstanding service during the first year of the war. The Iron Cross was considered the most distinguished and recognizable military decoration of Imperial Germany, and it symbolizes the bravery, dedication, and sacrifice of the German military personnel.
Next, we see the Military Merit Cross 3rd Class with Swords, a Bavarian award, instituted in 1866 to recognize exceptional service in wartime and peacetime. The crossed swords denote that the award was granted for exceptional bravery in combat. The Military Merit Cross was only awarded to enlisted soldiers and NCOs, making it a highly esteemed and sought-after decoration.
Finally, on the right, we have the Hindenburg Cross with Swords for Combatants, instituted in 1934 to recognize the service of German veterans who had fought in World War I. The Hindenburg Cross was awarded to all combatants who had served in the military for at least three months and who had not received the Iron Cross 1st or 2nd Class during the war. The crossed swords denote that the recipient had served in a combat unit and had participated in frontline action.
This four-place medal bar is a valuable collector’s item and a testament to the bravery and dedication of the German soldiers who served their country during a critical period in history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and commemorating the sacrifices made by the military personnel to ensure the safety and security of their nation.
