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The Mother’s Cross (Mutterkreuz): A Comprehensive Guide for Collectors
The Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter, or Mother’s Cross, was an award given to German mothers during the Nazi era, honoring their contributions to population growth. This award remains a highly sought-after item among militaria collectors. In this blog, we’ll explore the origins, design, and criteria for awarding the Mother’s Cross, as well as detailed tips for identifying authentic pieces.
The Origin of the Mother’s Cross
In 1938, Adolf Hitler introduced the Mother’s Cross as part of a campaign to increase the birth rate in Germany. This award aimed to recognize and encourage large families and celebrate motherhood as a “service” to the nation. The Mother’s Cross was awarded annually on August 12th, the birthday of Hitler’s mother, Klara Hitler, symbolizing a day to honor German mothers.
Design and Production of the Mother’s Cross
The Mother’s Cross came in three classes, each associated with the number of children a woman had:
- Bronze Cross: for mothers of four to five children
- Silver Cross: for mothers of six to seven children
- Gold Cross: for mothers of eight or more children
Each class featured a cross-shaped design, with blue and white enamel and either a silver or gold border, depending on the class. In the center, a black swastika was surrounded by the words “Der Deutschen Mutter”, meaning “To the German Mother.” Authentic Mother’s Crosses were carefully crafted, with a high-quality enamel finish and a durable metal frame.
To Whom Was the Mother’s Cross Awarded?
The Mother’s Cross was awarded to German mothers who adhered to the racial and ideological standards of the Nazi regime. Recipients had to be of “Aryan” descent and demonstrate loyalty to the regime. Award ceremonies were held locally, often in the presence of Nazi officials, and receiving the Mother’s Cross granted certain privileges, including social recognition and possible ration benefits.
How to Identify an Authentic Mother’s Cross
Due to the high number of replicas, identifying an authentic Mother’s Cross can be challenging. Here are some detailed indicators to help collectors differentiate between genuine and fake items.
Take a look at the pictures below and compare them. Numbers are to indicate the subject on the piece:
- Quality of the white Enamel
Authentic Mother’s Crosses have a vibrant white enamel that is evenly applied, without discoloration or bubbles. Fakes often have a duller enamel, sometimes with defects or uneven coloring. Also, on most fake crosses, the white enamel is much thicker, as can be seen in the picture. Compare the letter “1” on the fake one to the letter “1” on the original one. - Quality of the bleu Enamel
Mother’s Crosses have a vibrant blue enamel that is evenly applied. It has a deep blue color that shows a lot of details in the enamel. On most fake crosses, the blue enamel is much less detailed and has little to no depth, as can be seen in the picture. Compare the letter “2” on the fake one to the letter “2” on the original one. - Pointed Sides of the Sunrays
The sunrays on the fake Mother’s Crosses are mostly dull. They are not as pointy as the original ones. Look at the picture and compare the letter “3” on the fake one to the letter “3” on the original one. - The Text on the Mothers Cross
Original Mother’s Crosses have the text in the circle of the medal with the text “Mutter” centered to the bottom side of the circle. The two “T”s of “Mutter” are centered with the enamel, as can be seen on the original cross. This can be a little off but never as much as in the fake example. Look at the picture and compare the letter “4” on the fake one to the letter “4” on the original one. - The Roundel Swastika
The swastika in the center is usually thicker on a fake cross. The original crosses are a little thinner. Look at the picture and compare the letter “5” on the fake one to the letter “5” on the original one. - The Back Side Markings
On the back of the Mother’s Cross, the text needs to be detailed and have fine lines. On the fake crosses, the engraving is thick and less detailed, and most of the time very cramped together. Look at the picture and compare the letter “6” on the fake one to the letter “6” on the original one. - Material
Look for casting flaws on the medal. Most fake Mother’s Crosses have little dents and imperfections on the medal. This is an indication that it has been cast. Look at the picture and compare the letter “7” on the fake one to the letter “7” on the original one.
Extra signs to look at
- Metal Quality and Weight
Authentic Mother’s Crosses were crafted from high-quality metal and generally have a heavier weight compared to reproductions. Replicas are often lighter and may have a cheaper, less durable feel due to the use of low-cost metals. - Patina and Aging
Genuine Mother’s Crosses usually show signs of age, such as minor discolorations or subtle wear along the edges. This aging, or patina, is hard to replicate. Be cautious of crosses that appear brand new, as these are often reproductions.
Conclusion
The Mother’s Cross is not just a collector’s item but a piece of historical significance that offers a window into the Nazi regime’s social policies. Understanding the history, design, and authenticity markers helps collectors preserve the integrity of these artifacts and honors the context from which they originated.
For militaria collectors, learning how to differentiate between authentic and replica Mother’s Crosses is essential. By following these tips, you can confidently identify original pieces and expand your collection with genuine artifacts.