Original Third Reich World War I Honor Cross (Hindenburg Cross) For Next Of Kin

Original Third Reich World War I Honor Cross (Hindenburg Cross) For Next Of Kin Of Fallen Soldiers-Instituted in 1934 by Reichspräsident Paul von Hindenburg, this medal was the first official World War I service decoration of the Third Reich. Commonly referred to as theHindenburg Cross.It was given to veterans of front line combat, non-combat veterans and auxiliary personnel, as well as the next-of-kin of personnel who were killed in action from August 1914 to December 1918. There are crosses with and without swords along with different patterns black, white, and red colors.This authentic example includes its original ribbon, which shows staining and discoloration from age. The white outer border on the ribbon signifies this is for the next of kin (i.e., parents or widows). The bronze cross with blackened finish itself is inscribed on the front with the dates'1914 1918', surrounded by a laurel wreath and crossed swords. The reverse is marked'D&Co' indicating it was made by 'Dransfeld & Co, Menden' -- a rare maker.The medal exhibits typical age-related wear and remains in good overall condition.