Romania – “Crossing of the Danube” Medal (1877) – Russo-Turkish War Campaign Decoration
Country: Kingdom of Romania
Medal Name: Crucea Trecerea Dunării (Crossing of the Danube Cross)
Conflict: Russo-Turkish War (1877–1878)
Established: 1878 by Prince Carol I of Romania
Dimensions: Approx. 49.20 x 43.53 mm
Material: Darkened iron or bronze alloy
Condition: Visible corrosion spots and surface wear. Please refer to high-resolution photos for exact condition.
The Crossing of the Danube Cross was issued by Prince Carol I to honor Romanian military and civilian participants in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877–1878, specifically commemorating the crossing of the Danube River—a pivotal moment in Romania’s campaign against the Ottoman Empire.
This was one of Romania’s earliest national military decorations and is significant as it predates the country’s formal independence, which was declared in 1877 and recognized internationally in 1878.
Design Features:
Obverse:
A blackened cross pattée with a stippled texture.
At the center: a medallion featuring the monogram of Prince Carol I, surmounted by a royal crown.
Reverse:
Central inscription: “TRECEREA DUNĂRII 1877”
(Translation: "Crossing of the Danube 1877") – honoring the historic military maneuver.
Notable Details:
Medal has signs of corrosion, especially on one arm of the cross. The surface has general patina and wear appropriate to its age (over 140 years old).
All details remain legible and structurally sound—an authentic, untouched example.
Worn by Romanian veterans in national celebrations and military parades post-independence.
This medal holds particular historical value for collectors of:
Romanian royal or military memorabilia
Russo-Turkish War artifacts
19th-century Balkan/European military history
An important and increasingly rare example of Romania’s early efforts to honor its national identity and military achievement.
Please review all photographs carefully for a full assessment of condition.