PRL, Virtuti Militari cl. IV. State Mint before 1960 Unique. Cross made at the State Mint prior to January 1960, having many elements modeled after higher class III crosses, such as the wreath. Issued in only one 1960. Total number of bestowments 6 of which 2 were for foreigners. The remaining awards to conspirators and escapees from Auschwitz concentration camp. The next bestowal of the Order of Virtuti Militari Class IV was already 1964 and a completely different type of cross known from numerous (52) bestowments and cataloged at Stela IV.3.4.A. The cross offered in our auction is the second such known piece in Polish collections. Dimensions 39 x 38,5 mm. Beautiful gilding, very good state of preservation.
After the auction on 21.04.2024 we received interesting information from one of the collectors from abroad about this cross. This is a different position on the origin of this cross, dating it to the 1940s. This does not change the fact of its great rarity. It is worth presenting:
These are the first post-war awards. I think this type of cross was made by the Caritage company in 103 pieces.
In 1948, 18 people were awarded this cross. Thus, according to the results of the Belvedere audit for 1948, the receipt of grade 4 crosses made of base metal, that is, not gold, amounted to 103 pieces, the consumption was 18 pieces, the balance as of 01.01.1949 = 85 pieces. Earlier, in 1947, there were no class IV crosses.
We include a certificate of authenticity with each item purchased in our auction for 4,000 PLN and above.
