Hindenburg Cross with Swords Miniature Stickpin – WWI Veteran’s Award

This high-detail miniature stickpin features the iconic Hindenburg Cross with Swords, the premier commemorative award for combat veterans of the Great War. A staple of German veteran "Patriotica," this diminutive piece allowed a former soldier to wear his combat record with pride on civilian attire, serving as a subtle but powerful reminder of frontline service.

The Honor Cross of the World War 1914/1918, commonly known as the Hindenburg Cross, was established by Field Marshal Paul von Hindenburg in 1934 to honor the service of German veterans. The version "with swords" was strictly reserved for front-line combatants (Frontkämpfer). These miniature stickpins were widely popular during the 1930s as veterans transitioned into civilian life, allowing them to identify their veteran status at social gatherings, political events, or daily business.

• The Badge: A faithful miniature reproduction of the bronze-finished cross pattée. The center features a laurel wreath encircling the dates “1914 / 1918” in raised relief.
• Symbolism: Crossed swords are placed between the arms of the cross, denoting the recipient's status as a combatant who served in the trenches or at the front.
• Material: Struck in a base metal with a warm, bronze-toned finish that mimics the full-sized award.
• The Pin: Mounted on a slender, vertically oriented stickpin. The shaft features a distinctive knurled or "twisted" section to ensure the pin remained securely fastened through the heavy wool of a lapel.
• Scale: This is a miniature item, precisely scaled for discreet civilian wear.

The stickpin is in very good collector condition. The bronze finish remains strong across the face of the badge, with only minor thinning on the high points of the dates and wreath, consistent with period wear. The pin is straight, and the reverse solder point is firm and original. There is a slight, natural age patina that adds to its authentic character.

This piece comes from a long-held collection of German veteran organization memorabilia and "Patriotica," representing the enduring legacy of the Great War generation.