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The Polish Cross of Valor is recognized as one of Poland's most prestigious military decorations, awarded for acts of valor and bravery. This award, created during the tumultuous years of the Polish-Soviet War, was given to soldiers who showed exceptional bravery. One version of the Cross of Valor, numbered 2542, was produced by the workshop of Albin Różycki in Warsaw, 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, notable for its lack of a date on the front, a detail found in later versions of the award. Here, we’ll dive into the history, design, and meaning behind this rare version of the Polish Cross of Valor. How the Polish Cross of Valor Was Established In 1920, the Polish government introduced the Cross of Valor as an official military decoration, during a time when Poland was fighting to secure its independence against Soviet forces. The war between Poland and Soviet Russia was a crucial time in the fight for Polish independence, and the bravery of Polish soldiers was critical in securing Poland's borders and independence. 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. PSZnZ Odznaka Beretowa 4 Baon Strzelców Karpackich – Sarmatia Antiques 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 was a well-known craftsman in Warsaw, and his contribution to the production of this medal reflects the high level of craftsmanship involved in its creation. The cross itself was made of bronze, a durable and symbolic material, with a design that was both simple and elegant. The Iconic Design of the Polish Cross of Valor The design of the Cross of Valor carries significant symbolic weight, and this particular version is no exception. The cross itself features a central medallion, surrounded by a wreath, which gives it a regal and commanding appearance, 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 The ribbon attached to this version of the Cross of Valor is another key element. The ribbon was produced by the Herse Fashion House in Warsaw, a well-known establishment renowned for its craftsmanship and quality, with a distinctive three-part structure that complements the elegance of the cross itself. The fact that a fashion house was involved in producing the ribbon highlights the blend of artistry and military tradition in this version of the Cross of Valor. Why Version 1 of the Polish Cross of Valor is Historically Significant This version of the Cross of Valor is described as Version 1 in Grzegorz Krogulec’s book 'Krzyż Walecznych', marking it as one of the earliest and most collectible versions of the award. A unique feature of this early version is the lack of a date on the front of the cross, with later versions including the date of the award, a detail absent in this early version. 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. 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. The soldiers who received this version of the medal were among the first to be recognized for their acts of valor during the war, making this version a symbol of not only individual bravery but also the broader fight for national independence. The Significance of the Polish Cross of Valor in Today’s World The Polish Cross of Valor remains one of the most iconic symbols of bravery in Poland's military history. The first version, created by Albin Różycki, stands out as a rare and valuable piece of Polish military heritage. 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.