WWII German Mother’s Cross in Silver 1938 – Original Mutterkreuz Medal

Description

WWII German Mother’s Cross in Silver: Overview

A Mother’s Cross in Silver with blue and white enamel, the central inscription “Der Deutschen Mutter”, and its blue and white ribbon. The reverse carries the foundation date “16. Dezember 1938” and the facsimile signature of Adolf Hitler, which is part of the design and not a handwritten signature.

Historical Context

The Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter was instituted on 16 December 1938 as part of the regime’s family and population policy. It was awarded in bronze, silver and gold; the silver grade was for mothers of six or seven children. As a civil award, it documents state ideology, family policy and the role assigned to women under the regime, which gives it documentary value beyond its appearance.

WWII German Mother’s Cross in Silver: Description

• Type: Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter, silver grade
• Obverse: blue enamel arms with white enamel borders, central ring inscribed “Der Deutschen Mutter”
• Reverse: “16. Dezember 1938” and facsimile signature
• Ribbon: blue and white, present
• Inventory code: INS82

Condition

Attractive period example with visible enamel, age-related patina and signs of handling consistent with its age. Enamel condition matters greatly on these awards, so please study the photographs closely; they show the actual piece and form part of the description.

Provenance

No further provenance is recorded.

Authenticity

Offered as an original period award on the basis of construction, enamel, reverse inscription and ribbon, which are consistent with documented examples.

Further Reading

Before buying, read my Complete Collector’s Guide to WWII German Medals, which covers identification, makers, condition and reproductions.

For historical background, see Deutsches Historisches Museum, LeMO: “Das Mutterkreuz” (M. Kipp).

Historical Responsibility Notice: this item is offered as a historical artefact for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology.