Germany - Third Reich: Spanish Cross, Bronze Grade, straight pin with no makers mark.
Condition: Good Very Fine.
With the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War in 1936, Germany sent the Condor Legion to give military aid to Francisco Franco's Nationalist forces. On 14th April 1939, Germany instituted the Spanish Cross as a decoration for the German soldiers that fought in the Spanish Civil War. The Spanish Cross was to be worn on the right breast below the pocket flap or, if awarded, below the Blood Order. After the death of the recipient, the award remains with the next-of-kin.
The Spanish Cross was awarded in Gold, Silver and Bronze classes. The Gold Class was awarded only with swords. The Silver and Bronze Classes were awarded with and without swords. For outstanding bravery in combat, the Gold Class could be awarded with diamonds.
The non-combatant version was awarded to military personnel or civilians for three months of service in Spain without combat experience. 7869 bronze crosses were awarded without Swords. The Spanish Cross in Bronze with Swords was given to individuals involved in front line combat during the war. 8462 bronze crosses with swords were awarded. The Silver Cross was a non-combatant version awarded for merit. 327 silver crosses without swords were awarded. The Spanish Cross in Silver was awarded to the soldiers who took part in decisive battles or had a considerable fighting experience. 8304 silver crosses with swords were awarded. The Spanish Cross in Gold was awarded to a soldier who showed great merits in combat or achieved uncanny accomplishments. 1126 gold crosses were awarded, all as mentioned with swords. The Spanish Cross in Gold with Swords and Diamonds was the highest rank of the decoration. It was awarded to those who showed great leadership skills in battle or great merits. 28 gold crosses with diamonds were awarded. The Spanish Cross for Next of Kin was awarded to relatives of soldiers who died during their stay in Spain. 315 crosses of this class were awarded.
