Physical Description

A Leopold cross constructed of enamels and silvered bronze, or silver, or silvered war material. The arms of the cross are in red enamel. The obverse bears a circular medallion in the centre with the silvered coat of arms of Hamburg. The reverse centre bears a circular medallion with the inscription “FÜR VERDIENSTE IM KRIEGE 1914” (for merit in war). The reverse arms are pebbled. On a loop for suspension, with a red and white striped ribbon.

History

The Hanseatic Cross was established by the Senate of Hamburg, in collaboration with the Hanseatic cities of Bremen and Lübeck, on September 10, 1915. The cross was conferred upon citizens of Bremen, Hamburg, and Lübeck in recognition of meritorious service throughout the First World War (1914-1918), regardless of rank or status.

The cross was the three cities’ equivalent to the Prussian Iron Cross when it was conferred for bravery and combat merit. It could be awarded to nurses for voluntary service during wartime.

The shape of the cross is consistent between Bremen, Hamburg, and Lübeck, but each city's cross features a different obverse image.

The Hanseatic Cross of Hamburg was awarded 50,000 times.