The obverse displays the Confederate battle flag placed on the center thereof surrounded by a wreath, with the inscription UNITED DAUGHTERS [of the] CONFEDERACY TO THE U. C. V. (the UCV is the United Confederate Veterans) on the four arms of the cross.

At a meeting of the UDC at Hot Springs, Arkansas, in 1898, it took the assemblage by storm, and a committee was appointed by the President to develop designs.

When the idea was finally perfected, it was made to include not only veterans but also descendants of deceased Confederate soldiers and sailors.

It could not be purchased; it was given in recognition of loyal, honorable service to the South and only a Confederate veteran could wear it.

[2] Although no Civil War veterans are still living, the last verified Confederate veteran dying in 1951, Virginia Code section 18.2-176(b) remains in effect and makes it a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not more than US$500, to "wear any Southern Cross of Honor when not entitled to do so by the regulations under which such Crosses of Honor are given.

"[7] An unofficial analog of the Union's GAR Medal, its wearing was never authorized on U.S. military uniforms.