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The Polish Cross of Valor is recognized as one of Poland's most prestigious military decorations, given for extraordinary acts of courage and heroism. Established by the Polish government during the Polish-Soviet War, honored the brave actions of soldiers during this critical period in Polish history. Among the many versions of this medal, one notable example was produced by Albin Różycki’s workshop in Warsaw, numbered 2542, notable for its craftsmanship and unique design elements The bronze Cross of Valor, along with a distinctive three-part ribbon from the Herse Fashion House, represents a unique and rare variant of the award. 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. We’ll take a closer look at the creation, design, and legacy of this important piece of Polish military history. The Origins of the Polish Cross of Valor The Cross of Valor was first instituted in 1920 by the Polish government, during the fierce Polish-Soviet War, as Poland fought to protect its sovereignty. The war between Poland and Soviet Russia was a crucial time in the fight for Polish independence, and acts of valor by Polish troops played a significant role in defending the country’s sovereignty. This award was created as a symbol of recognition for soldiers who fought with exceptional courage, and it quickly became one of the most respected military decorations in Poland. The version of the Cross of Valor produced by Albin Różycki’s workshop is one of the earliest examples of this prestigious award, and it reflects the traditional design elements that were first introduced when the award was created. Albin Różycki, a respected artisan from Warsaw, was responsible for producing many official medals and decorations, and his workshop produced many of the earliest Crosses of Valor during the Polish-Soviet War. The cross itself was made of bronze, a durable and symbolic material, with a traditional design that emphasized both elegance and significance. Examining the Design of the Cross of Valor https://sarmatia-antiques.com/pl/produkt/orzel-wielkopolski-powstanie-wielkopolskie-1918-19/ The design of the Cross of Valor carries significant symbolic weight, and this particular version is no exception. The central medallion, encased by a wreath, gives the medal a stately and dignified look, with the lack of a date on the front marking it as one of the earliest versions. The reverse side of the cross typically bears the inscription 'Na Polu Chwały', meaning 'On the Field of Glory', further emphasizing the honor and valor associated with the award The ribbon attached to this version of the Cross of Valor is another key element. This ribbon, made by the Herse Fashion House in Warsaw, adds a touch of refinement and craftsmanship to the award, 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 Importance of Version 1 of the Cross of Valor According to Grzegorz Krogulec’s book 'Krzyż Walecznych', this particular version of the Cross of Valor is classified as Version 1, marking it as one of the earliest and most collectible versions of the award. One of the defining characteristics of this version is the absence of a date on the front of the cross, a feature that was later altered in subsequent versions. The lack of a date places emphasis on the heroic act itself, rather than the time it was performed, making this version highly sought after by collectors and historians alike. Pre-WW2 Polish Paratroopers Exercise Nowa Wilejka (II) – Sarmatia Antiques As a product of the Polish-Soviet War, Version 1 of the Cross of Valor holds deep historical significance, reflecting the bravery of those who fought for Poland’s sovereignty. The earliest recipients of this version were those who demonstrated extraordinary bravery in one of Poland’s most pivotal wars, making this version a symbol of not only individual bravery but also the broader fight for national independence. Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the Polish Cross of Valor As one of Poland’s most prestigious military decorations, the Cross of Valor continues to represent courage and sacrifice. This early version, produced by Albin Różycki in Warsaw, is a unique and important part of the Cross of Valor’s history. Featuring a bronze cross, a ribbon from the Herse Fashion House, and no date on the front, this version represents the bravery of the soldiers who fought for Poland’s independence during the Polish-Soviet War. This version is now a valued piece for both collectors and historians, reflecting its historical significance.