Original Dutch Oorlogsherinneringskruis WWII, maker Fa. A. Tack Breda on ribbon reverse
Key Information:
Item: Netherlands War Remembrance Cross (Oorlogsherinneringskruis)
Clasps: KRIJG TER ZEE 1940–1945 and JAVAZEE 1941–1942
Period: World War II (instituted 1944)
Maker: Fa. A. Tack, Breda (stamped on reverse of ribbon backing)
Material: Bronze cross with orange and green ribbon
Dimensions: Standard full-size decoration
Medal Design:
A bronze cross with a central portrait of Queen Wilhelmina, encircled by a laurel wreath and the inscription VOOR KRIJGSVERICHTINGEN (“For War Operations”). Mounted on an orange and green ribbon with two rare clasps: Naval War 1940–1945 and Java Sea 1941–1942. Reverse of the cross is plain. On the reverse of the ribbon backing, the maker’s name Fa. A. Tack, Breda is clearly marked, confirming originality.
Condition:
For condition please refer to the photographs. Medal retains original patina, ribbon is well-preserved with some light wear. Clasps are intact and securely mounted. Reverse of ribbon shows original stitched blue cloth backing with clear maker’s name. No repairs.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Netherlands War Remembrance Cross (Oorlogsherinneringskruis) was instituted in 1944 and awarded to Dutch armed forces and merchant navy personnel who participated in combat operations during WWII. The clasps highlight specific campaigns, with KRIJG TER ZEE for naval service and JAVAZEE 1941–1942 commemorating participation in the Battle of the Java Sea – a significant engagement during the Pacific War.
Examples with multiple clasps, particularly the scarce Java Sea clasp, are highly sought after by collectors of WWII and Dutch militaria. The presence of the original Fa. A. Tack Breda maker’s mark on the ribbon reverse further enhances its authenticity and collectible value.
Summary:
Original WWII Netherlands War Remembrance Cross (Oorlogsherinneringskruis) with two clasps: Naval War 1940–1945 and Java Sea 1941–1942. Complete with original ribbon and backing marked Fa. A. Tack Breda. A desirable and authentic decoration for advanced collectors of Dutch and WWII militaria.