Original interwar Polish Gold Cross of Merit, numbered example
Key Information:
• Country: Poland
• Award: Gold Cross of Merit (Złoty Krzyż Zasługi)
• Period: Pre-1939 – Second Polish Republic
• Maker: W. Gontarczyk, Warsaw
• Material: Gilded tombac
• Number on reverse: 526 (privately added)
Medal Design:
Red enamelled cross with gilt rays between the arms.
Central white medallion with monogram “RP” – abbreviation for “Rzeczpospolita Polska” translated as “Republic of Poland.”
Reverse plain with stamped number 526.
Condition:
• Original pre-1939 cross by W. Gontarczyk
• Enamel well preserved with minor age wear
• Reverse stamped with number 526
• The numbering was privately added later and was not officially used for this type during the interwar period
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
Established in 1923, the Gold Cross of Merit was awarded for distinguished civil and military service to the Polish state. Pre-war examples manufactured in Warsaw are sought after by collectors of Second Polish Republic decorations.
This example is an authentic interwar piece. The reverse numbering is a later non-official addition and should not be considered period-applied numbering.
Summary:
Original pre-1939 Polish Gold Cross of Merit by W. Gontarczyk. Authentic interwar decoration with later privately added reverse number. Solid collectible example of a Second Polish Republic state award.