The Collector’s Encyclopaedia · Decorations · Commemorative awards

Hindenburg Cross: History, Grades and Collector’s Guide

Created 1934, by Reich President Paul von Hindenburg
Occasion 20th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War
Versions For front-line combatants (with swords); for other participants; for surviving dependants
Typical paperwork Award certificate issued by local authorities
In the collection No pieces currently available

The Honour Cross of the World War 1914/1918, known to collectors as the Hindenburg Cross, was awarded to millions of First World War veterans and dependants in the mid-1930s. It is one of the commonest German awards, but its documents are often a useful key to a veteran’s identity.

What Was the Hindenburg Cross?

Reich President Paul von Hindenburg created the cross in 1934 to mark the twentieth anniversary of the outbreak of war. It was awarded to participants in the First World War and to surviving dependants of those who had served. Front-line combatants received a version with swords.

Who Awarded It, and Which Documents Go With It?

Awards were processed by local police and civil authorities, and the recipient received a printed certificate. Many such certificates are dated 1934–1935 and carry the name of the local issuing office. See award documents and Paul von Hindenburg.

What Should Collectors Watch For?

  • The version (with swords, without swords, or for dependants) must match the certificate.
  • Maker marks are common and do not affect authenticity on their own.
  • Value lies mainly in named groups with documents.

Collector’s Note

A Hindenburg Cross with its certificate often turns up alongside a Wehrpass, linking a man’s two wars. That is where such groups become interesting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who created the Hindenburg Cross?

Reich President Paul von Hindenburg, in 1934.

Who received it?

First World War participants and surviving dependants.

What do the swords mean?

They mark the version for front-line combatants.

Historical Responsibility Notice: this entry documents historical figures and artefacts of the National Socialist period for collecting, preservation, education and research. It does not endorse or glorify any ideology, and it is written in memory of the victims of the regime.

References & Further Reading