Oldenburg Friedrich-August Cross 2nd Class 1914 featuring the spange "Vor Dem Feinde"

The Oldenburg Friedrich-August Cross 2nd Class 1914 is a highly collectible military medal that dates back to the First World War. Crafted in bronze, this medal measures 43mm in diameter and features intricate designs that showcase the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the conflict.

Oldenburg is a historic region in northwest Germany, with a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the Middle Ages. During the First World War, Oldenburg soldiers fought alongside their fellow Germans on the Western Front, and the Friedrich-August Cross was established as a military decoration to recognize their bravery and service.

The cross is named in honor of Grand Duke Friedrich August of Oldenburg, who was a key figure in the establishment of the decoration. 

This particular medal also features the spange "Vor Dem Feinde"

Attached I have a newspaper clipping explaining what this spange represents. 

Misinformation regarding the "Vor dem Feinde" clasp has been circulating recently. Some posts suggest that recipients of the Friedrich August Cross 2nd Class purchased these clasps themselves and added them to their medal and ribbon bars as a decorative embellishment. However, the announcement posted clearly states that the Grand Duke established this clasp to specifically recognize meritorious combat-service on the front lines by recipients of the FA-Cross 2nd Class.

Recipients of the FA-Cross 2nd Class who received the award for service in the rear echelon, occupied enemy territories, or in the German homeland are not authorized to wear this clasp. These recipients also received the FA-Cross on War Ribbon, not on the Non-Combatant Ribbon.

The announcement further states that the clasp is awarded along with the FA-Cross 2nd Class to frontline combatants, not separately. However, if an individual who already has an FA-Cross 2nd Class without a clasp is transferred to frontline combat service, it is up to them to obtain a clasp on their own. No separate award certificate is issued for the clasp, nor is a complimentary clasp provided. As a result, retailers of military products may offer these clasps on a private-purchase basis, particularly after the war. (https://gmic.co.uk/topic/79933-vor-dem-feinde-newspaper/)

The Oldenburg Friedrich-August Cross 2nd Class 1914 is an important artifact that serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Oldenburg soldiers during the First World War. Its intricate design and historical significance make it a valuable addition to any collection of military memorabilia or World War I artifacts.

The importance of this medal lies not only in its connection to the history of Oldenburg, but also in its role in commemorating the bravery and sacrifice of all soldiers who fought in the First World War. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of those who served their country during this tumultuous time in history, and a reminder of the human cost of war.

Overall, the Oldenburg Friedrich-August Cross 2nd Class 1914 is a remarkable piece of history that serves as a tangible link to the past. It is a valuable addition to any collection, offering a glimpse into the complex and often brutal history of the First World War and the sacrifices made by those who fought in it.

This is a consignment item.