Cross of Merit, II Class (with swords, 1942-1989)

CATEGORY: Version

SKU: 02.POL.0105.102.01.003

Estimated market value:

$120 USD

  • Cross of Merit, II Class (with swords, 1942-1989)
  • Cross of Merit, II Class (with swords, 1942-1989) Reverse

Estimated market value:

$120 USD

Attributes

  • Country
    Poland
  • Makers
  • Composition
    Silver/Enamelled
  • Inscription
    Obv: RP
  • Size
    59mm x 41mm
  • Version Remarks
    The reverse is stamped "SPINK LONDON."

Physical Description and Item Details


Poland - Cross of Merit with sword, created in 1942, silver class, hallmark of the house Spink, fragment of ribbon sewn with pin, in the signed box.
59 x 41 mm.

History


The Cross of Merit was established by the Council of Ministers in 1923. It was renewed and modified by the Government of the Republic of Poland in exile during the Second World War and later by the Polish People’s Republic. It was officially re-instituted in the Third Polish Republic in 1992.

It is awarded to Polish civilians and military personnel as well as foreigners for exceptional service to the nation. The Cross (with swords) was added by the Government of the Republic of Poland in exile in 1942 to recognise civilians and military personnel for outstanding contributions to the nation during times of war. This version was not awarded by the Polish People’s Republic, but it is currently awarded by the Republic of Poland.

The earliest crosses from this period are stamped on the reverse with a serial number.

The II Class Cross features obverse initials that stand for “Rzeczpospolita Polska” (Republic of Poland).

There may be additional versions of the II Class Cross that differ in size, composition, and manufacturer.

The other versions are listed in the Medals & Decorations of the Polish People’s Republic (1944-1989) and the Third Polish Republic (1989-).

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