The Tiffany Cross is widely considered the rarest military award, specifically holding the distinction as the rarest Medal of Honor ever issued. Its unique history and limited production contribute to its unparalleled scarcity among military decorations.
Understanding the Rarity of the Tiffany Cross
The Tiffany Cross is not merely a rare collectible; it represents a specific, short-lived design of the highest military award for valor in the United States.Origins and Design of the Tiffany Cross
Authorized in 1919, the Tiffany Cross served as one of the designs for the Navy Medal of Honor, intended for naval personnel. Its distinctive appearance, crafted by the renowned Tiffany & Co., featured an ornate Maltese cross with an eagle perched atop. Unlike the standard Navy Medal of Honor, which typically features a more classic five-pointed star design, the Tiffany Cross presented a significantly different aesthetic.Why It's So Rare
The primary reason for the extreme rarity of the Tiffany Cross stems from its unpopularity and subsequent discontinuation. Despite its intricate design, the award was not widely favored by those eligible to receive it. This lack of popularity ultimately led to its removal from the Medal of Honor profile in 1942. After its discontinuation, the Navy reverted exclusively to its original, more traditional Medal of Honor design.- Limited Production: Due to its short lifespan and lack of popularity, only a very limited number of Tiffany Cross Medals of Honor were ever awarded. This scarcity makes it an exceptionally prized artifact.
- Discontinuation: The official decision to cease its production and issuance cemented its status as a historical anomaly, ensuring no new examples would enter circulation.
Distinguishing the Tiffany Cross
The table below highlights key facts about this exceptional award:| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Award Type | Navy Medal of Honor (specific design variant) |
| Designer | Tiffany & Co. |
| Period Awarded | Post-1919 authorization; discontinued in 1942 |
| Rarity Factor | Least popular Medal of Honor design; very few ever issued |
| Current Status | Rarest of all Medal of Honor designs; no longer awarded |
The Tiffany Cross remains a significant piece of military history, symbolizing a unique chapter in the evolution of the Medal of Honor. Its rarity underscores its singular place among the most prestigious and seldom-seen military decorations. For more information on the Medal of Honor, visit the Naval History and Heritage Command website.
