Germany – (Empire) Prussia, Alsens Kreuz

Description

Alsens Kreuz (Alsen Cross), a Prussian military decoration instituted on 7 December 1864 by King Wilhelm I of Prussia.
Historical background:

The Alsen Cross was awarded to Prussian and allied soldiers who participated in the Battle of Alsen on 29 June 1864 during the Second Schleswig War. This war was fought between Prussia/Austria and Denmark over the duchies of Schleswig and Holstein. The Battle of Alsen was decisive and led to Denmark losing the war, resulting in Schleswig coming under Prussian control.
Description:

The cross is made of gilded bronze.
The obverse (as shown in the picture) has a relief image of King Wilhelm I and the text “WILHELM KOENIG VON PREUSSEN” (Wilhelm, King of Prussia).
The reverse (not shown here) has the text “ALSEN 29. JUNI 1864”.
The cross was worn on a ribbon of blue with white stripes, typical of Prussian military awards.

Recipients:

It was awarded to soldiers of the Prussian army and navy, as well as some allies who participated in the battle. It was an important decoration for those who fought in the Schleswig-Holstein Wars, especially in Prussia, which strengthened its power in northern Germany after the victory.

It is a sought-after medal among collectors of Prussian and German military awards, especially in good condition with original ribbons.