*Prussian, Franco-Prussian War Campaign Medal 1870–1871, Combatant Issue, Bronze from Captured Cannon, “AUS EROBERTEM GESCHÜTZ”*
A genuine Prussian War Commemorative Medal for the Campaign of 1870–1871, instituted following the Franco-Prussian War and the unification of Germany under Kaiser Wilhelm I.
The medal is struck in bronze and suspended from its original black, white and red ribbon, the national colours associated with Prussia and the newly proclaimed German Empire. The obverse bears the crowned royal cipher “W” for Kaiser Wilhelm I, with the inscription: “Dem siegreichen Heere” (To the victorious army). Around the outer border appears the patriotic motto: “Gott war mit uns, Ihm sei die Ehre” (God was with us, to Him be the glory). The reverse features a large Iron Cross form with radiating rays, enclosing a laurel wreath surrounding the campaign dates: “1870 – 1871”
The medal retains its original suspension ring and shows the correct edge inscription “AUS EROBERTEM GESCHÜTZ” (From captured cannon), confirming it as the combatant issue struck from bronze made from captured French artillery.
This symbolic use of enemy cannon metal was intended to commemorate Prussia’s victory in the Franco-Prussian War, the conflict that culminated in the proclamation of the German Empire in January 1871 at Versailles.
Approx. Measurements – Diameter: 30 mm.
History Note:
The Kriegsdenkmünze für die Feldzüge 1870–1871 was instituted on 20 May 1871 by Kaiser Wilhelm I to commemorate service during the Franco-Prussian War. The campaign resulted in the defeat of France, the capture of Emperor Napoleon III at Sedan, and the establishment of the German Empire.
Two principal versions of the medal were issued:
- Bronze combatant medal – cast from captured French cannon and bearing the edge inscription “AUS EROBERTEM GESCHÜTZ”.
- Steel non-combatant medal – issued to medical personnel, officials and civilians supporting the war effort.
The medal became one of the most widely awarded decorations of the newly unified German state and remained an important symbol of German national pride well into the early twentieth century.
*Condition*
The medal displays honest age and service wear consistent with its period. The bronze surface shows patina, small marks and areas of darkening. The suspension loop remains intact. The ribbon appears original but shows age-related fraying, staining and wear. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQ#3029D0_6641237049
