Polish Cross of Valour

[Janek79]

Hi , I will appreciate your opinion on this cross especially the award bar
Thank you

[A.J. Zawadzki]

Hi Janek, the cross is a genuine Knedler government issue 1st pattern. The award bar is also a recognized Knedler type. From the small glimpse of ribbon it looks to be post war PRL era. It's not at all uncommon to find this combination. Great looking cross

Regards,
Tony

[Janek79]

Thank You Tony

[Chris109]

Hi Janek, the cross is a genuine Knedler government issue 1st pattern. The award bar is also a recognized Knedler type. From the small glimpse of ribbon it looks to be post war PRL era. It's not at all uncommon to find this combination. Great looking cross

Regards,
Tony

The number is engraved on this piece. Does that mean it's not original?

[A.J. Zawadzki]

It means only that it’s not a pre-WW2 government issue cross. Please post photos of the entire cross if you want to know more about the cross’s maker and production era.

Regards,
Tony

[Chris109]

It means only that it’s not a pre-WW2 government issue cross. Please post photos of the entire cross if you want to know more about the cross’s maker and production era.

Regards,
Tony

Back and front.

[A.J. Zawadzki]

Hi Chris, this cross was made by Arthus Bertrand of Paris. Nice cross.

Regards,
Tony

[Chris109]

Hi Chris, this cross was made by Arthus Bertrand of Paris. Nice cross.

Regards,
Tony

Does that mean it's just a copy? Is there a way to trace the serial number?

[A.J. Zawadzki]

It is what's called a "replacement copy". Polish word "wtórnik". Purchased by soldiers as an extra for wear on their uniform. This is not to be confused as being a fake / reproduction. This is a legitimate cross. In pre-war Poland the imported French made decorations were typically considered to be "deluxe".

Unfortunately there's no way to trace the serial number. The terrible devastation suffered by Poland during the war resulted in the records likely being lost. Although it has been rumoured that the Soviets, who occupied Poland for 5 decades after war, took them and they still exist somewhere.

Regards,
Tony