"The Deutschland Cross" Table Medal, Commemorating Submarine (the Deutschland) 1916 Surface in Chesapeake Bay, Only 30 Made. In July of 1916 the German submarine the Deutschland surface in Chesapeake Bay and at the time, the world's largest submarine. It was escorted to Baltimore, she was held by the US to be a merchant vessel ultimately being the only submarine in history to make a successful maritime voyage. German Nationals in Maryland were ecstatic and cast 30 table medals from her pig-iron ballast to give to the captain and crew. The medal is rough textured, double cast heavy black iron cross in the likeness of the Iron Cross. Table medal 2.75 x 2.75 x .375" and in the center a 1.20: cast bronze medallion with the profile of the captain, Paul Konig. Interesting to note, the Bremen Staatsarchiv did not know the existence of this piece as it was forbidden to copy the Imperial Cross in any form.
Also included is a first edition copy of the book about the Deutschland by the captain, Paul Konig, a 1974 editon of The Medal Collector with a great history of the piece and a million mark note during the staggering inflation in the 1920s.
Estimated Value $250 - 500
Montana's Ranch Collection.
Military
