This guide will cover only the Prussian Landwehr Long Service Cross 1st Class.  The Landwehr Dienstauszeichnung Kreuz 1. Klasse (often abbreviated LDA 1.) was instituted in 1868 by the Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm IV.  It was awarded to Landwehr or Reserve members who had served a minimum of 20 years.   A Prussian Cabinet Order, dated 4 December 1871, specified that it would be worn after all orders, decorations and campaign medals.  If the Landwehr Dienstauszeichnung 2. Klasse had been previously awarded, only the Cross was worn when authorized - both were not officially permitted to be worn at the same time (there were very few examples of this however).   This rule was generally followed until this award was discontinued in early-1913.   It's interesting to note the confusion surrounding this award due to the similarity of the Prussian (and other German states!) Army Long Service Cross. 

The Landwehr Dienstauszeichnung Kreuz 1. Klasse or Prussian Landwehr Long Service Cross 1st Class is typically described as a "gold" cross - in this case not real gold but a metal gold color made of various alloys, depending on the maker.  Some examples are actually gilt.  The obverse center has the monogram F.W.IV. centered within a circle.  The reverse center has  XX centered within a circle.  It is rarely hallmarked with most cases being a jeweler's copy made of a gold alloy (this would be one of the rare cases where a jeweler's copy was worth more than a contemporary issue!).  The Cross is suspended through a similar metal ring through which passes the blue silk woven ribbon (UV-negative with a fine wefting design but the ribbon has often been replaced).   These Crosses generally sell for between $50 to $200 with the value rarely dependant upon condition and the seller.  The price increases if accompanied by other medals and/or documentation. 

There are a few good copies on the market.  In this particular case, it's very difficult to distinguish between a good copy and the original.  The main distinguishing factor is that most copies are cast and have the mold marks along the edges.  The lettering is the best determinant but a good magnifying glass and a known contemporary example is required for comparison.  My best advice remains:  Buy only from a reputable dealer who specializes in Prussian medals.  

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