History

The Commemorative Cross for the Austrian War was instituted by King Wilhelm I and was awarded as a mark of honour to recognize participation in the campaign against Austria.

The cross was awarded to officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers.

There were four versions of the cross, the Cross for Königgrätz, the Cross of the Main Army, the Cross for Non-Combatants, and the Cross for Faithful Warriors (Treue Krieger). The different versions featured unique obverse inscriptions.

The Cross of the Main Army was conferred upon participants from the regions of South Germany and Thuringia.