Hamburg Hanseatic Cross Stickpin-Size Pendant (1914 Issue)

This small pendant presents a miniature version of the Hamburg Hanseatic Cross, produced in the familiar red-enameled form granted during the First World War. The piece retains the characteristic flared cross arms and a central medallion bearing Hamburg’s three-tower city gate, executed here in red enamel with metallic detailing visible beneath the translucent surface. The reverse is stamped with the standard inscription Für Verdienst im Kriege 1914 in a raised Gothic script, matching the wartime pattern seen on full-size decorations. The loop and suspension ring appear contemporary to the medal and show age-appropriate handling wear.

The Hanseatic Cross was created in 1914 by the free Hanseatic cities of Hamburg, Bremen, and Lübeck. Each city produced its own distinct version, and Hamburg’s design—with its fortified gate—was awarded to soldiers and civilians for wartime merit. Production was handled by multiple makers, and smaller presentation or jeweler-made pieces such as this pendant were privately purchased and often worn unofficially on watch chains or kept as personal keepsakes. These miniature types were popular among front-line soldiers who preferred a discreet form of their award for travel or civilian appearance, reflecting the wider German tradition of medal miniaturization.

Collectors value Hanseatic pieces for their close link to the autonomous Hanseatic city-states and their unique non-Prussian aesthetics. Miniatures with intact enamel—especially red enamel prone to chipping—remain desirable. This example shows stable, glossy enamel on all four arms and a clean reverse with sharp lettering. The metal surfaces show light patination and mild wear from use, consistent with age. No cracks or major enamel losses are visible in the provided images.