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The Polish Cross of Valor stands as one of Poland's most honorable military decorations, bestowed upon soldiers for their acts of bravery in battle. First instituted during the Polish-Soviet War of 1919-21, honored the brave actions of soldiers during this critical period in Polish history. A specific version of this prestigious award, numbered 2542, was crafted by the renowned Warsaw workshop of Albin Różycki, and this particular version stands out for its distinct features This version of the Cross of Valor is made of bronze, and it features a three-part ribbon produced by the famous Herse Fashion House in Warsaw. In his authoritative book 'Krzyż Walecznych', Grzegorz Krogulec designates this piece as Version 1, recognizable by its distinct omission of a date on the front, a feature added in later versions. Here, we’ll dive into the history, design, and meaning behind this rare version of the Polish Cross of Valor. The Origins of the Polish Cross of Valor First introduced in 1920, the Cross of Valor was established by the Polish government, during a time when Poland was fighting to secure its independence against Soviet forces. This period was one of intense conflict, and the actions of Poland’s soldiers were instrumental in securing a future for the nation. The award was specifically designed to honor soldiers who displayed acts of courage and exceptional valor in combat, and it remains one of the most significant military honors in Poland’s history. The version of the Cross of Valor produced by Albin Różycki’s workshop is one of the earliest examples of this prestigious award, featuring many of the original design elements that were used when the Cross was first instituted. Albin Różycki, a respected artisan from Warsaw, was responsible for producing many official medals and decorations, and his contribution to the production of this medal reflects the high level of craftsmanship involved in its creation. This version of the cross was cast in bronze, reflecting both durability and tradition, with a design that was both simple and elegant. Examining the Design of the Cross of Valor The design of the Cross of Valor is rich with symbolism, and the early version produced by Albin Różycki is especially noteworthy. The central medallion, encased by a wreath, gives the medal a stately and dignified look, and the omission of a date on the front makes this version unique among early medals. The reverse side of the cross typically bears the inscription 'Na Polu Chwały', meaning 'On the Field of Glory', a fitting tribute to the courage shown by those who received the Cross of Valor One of the distinctive features of this version of the Cross of Valor is its ribbon. The ribbon was crafted by the prestigious Herse Fashion House in Warsaw, which was famous for producing high-quality fabrics, with a distinctive three-part structure that complements the elegance of the cross itself. This collaboration between a military decoration and a fashion house reflects the importance of both craftsmanship and artistry in the creation of the award. The Significance of Version 1 of the Polish Cross of Valor https://sarmatia-antiques.com/product/pre-ww2-polish-military-organization-miniature-badge/ According to Grzegorz Krogulec’s book 'Krzyż Walecznych', this particular version of the Cross of Valor is classified as Version 1, establishing it as one of the earliest iterations of this prestigious medal. This version is notable for the fact that there is no date inscribed on the front of the cross, a design choice that was changed in later versions of the award. This early design reflects the original intent of the award, focusing solely on the bravery of the recipient without the inclusion of specific dates, and this version is now considered one of the rarest and most valuable iterations of the Cross of Valor. This first version of the Cross of Valor is not only an important military decoration, but also a symbol of Poland's fight for independence during the Polish-Soviet War. Recipients of this version of the Cross were the first to be honored for their courage in the Polish-Soviet War, and it remains a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for Poland's freedom. Final Thoughts on the Polish Cross of Valor As one of Poland’s most prestigious military decorations, the Cross of Valor continues to represent courage and sacrifice. Version 1 of the Cross of Valor, made by Albin Różycki’s workshop in Warsaw, holds a special place in this legacy. With its bronze design, distinctive three-part ribbon by the Herse Fashion House, and lack of a date on the front, it serves as a lasting tribute to the courage of those who defended Poland during the war. Today, it is cherished not only by collectors but also by historians who recognize its importance.