Designed by Benno
von Arent, the
Danzig Cross
(
D
anziger Kreuz
) was instituted in August of 1939. This is a replica of the
First Class grade of the medal.  It is a
two-piece medal with pin and catch mechanism.
The medal was awarded
to German volunteers who sought to undermine the administration of the former German “free city” which
had been established by the
Versailles
treaty after
Germany
lost WWI.  This included military support for the eventual German invasion of Poland and the return of the city as part of
Germany
in 1939.  In all 88 first
class crosses were awarded.