German Honour Cross of the World War 1914–1918
(Honour Cross without Swords – Black Finish, Next-of-Kin Issue)
The Honour Cross of the World War 1914–1918, commonly known as the Hindenburg Cross, was instituted on 13 July 1934 to commemorate the service and sacrifice of the German people during the First World War. In addition to awards to surviving veterans, the decoration was also presented to the widows and parents of those who were killed, died of wounds, died in captivity, or were reported missing as a result of the war.
This example is the next-of-kin version, distinguished by its blackened finish and the absence of crossed swords. Unlike the combatant’s cross, this type features an oak-leaf wreath surrounding the central medallion bearing the dates 1914 – 1918, symbolising endurance and mourning rather than martial service. The reverse is plain, typically with a maker’s mark where present.
The cross is suspended from its correct widows’ and parents’ ribbon, displaying the Imperial colours of black, white, and red arranged in the distinctive pattern reserved for next-of-kin awards. These crosses were frequently worn suspended from a ribbon bow and attached to civilian clothing during commemorative events and remembrance ceremonies.
Two separate certificates (Urkunden) were issued for this class of award:
- Ehrenkreuz für Witwen (Honour Cross for Widows)
- Ehrenkreuz für Eltern (Honour Cross for Parents)
Between 1934 and 1944, several hundred thousand examples were awarded, making this a deeply poignant form of the Honour Cross, representing loss and remembrance rather than service in the field.
Today, the black Honour Cross remains an important and evocative First World War memorial decoration, valued by collectors for its clear association with bereavement, commemoration, and the human cost of the Great War.
AJMS Medals