Spanish Cross in Bronze – L/18

Product Description:  An exceptional Spanish Cross in Bronze – L/18, representing a highly desirable example of this prestigious award. Executed in high-quality bronzed tombak, the badge retains virtually all of its original finish, with luminous golden highlights on the raised elements contrasting beautifully against the deep, darker toning within the recessed details. Only the slightest wear is visible at the highest points, consistent with careful handling and light period use.

This impressive two-piece variant was manufactured by Petz & Lorenz and distributed by BH Mayer, and is correctly marked L/18 to the reverse. All original details remain sharply defined, reflecting the superior craftsmanship associated with this maker. The reverse exhibits minimal age patina and is fitted with a sheet-metal hinge, catch, and pin, all of which remain fully functional.

Completely original, sound, and untouched, the badge shows no damage or repairs and presents with clean surfaces throughout. Overall, an extremely choice and visually striking Spanish Cross in Bronze – L/18, preserved in exceptional condition and well suited for the most discerning advanced collection.

Historical Description: The Spanish Cross (Spanienkreuz) was instituted on April 14, 1939, to recognize the achievements of German personnel who participated in the Spanish Civil War between 1936 and 1939. It was in the shape of a Maltese cross with a swastika in the center and Luftwaffe eagle emblems in the spaces between the four arms. The pin-backed award was issued in four classes: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Gold with Diamonds. Bronze and Silver classes were made both with and without swords. Silver and Bronze awards without swords were for non-combatants and was issued to military and civilian personnel with three months of wartime experience in Spain, with the silver version issued for merit. The Bronze award with swords was for combatants, the silver award with swords was for soldiers who took part in decisive battles and who had considerable fighting experience, and the Gold award was for great merit. The highest grade. The Spanish Cross in Gold with Diamonds, was very rarely awarded and reserved for those who showed the greatest merit or who had high leadership skills in battle. There was also a version made for the next of kin of men who had been killed; this was a medal suspended from a ribbon, rather than a pin-on badge. Unlike most German awards, the Spanish Cross was worn on the right side of the uniform.

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