1864 Düppel Storm Cross (Sturmkreuz) – Prussian Campaign Medal

The Düppel Storm Cross (Sturmkreuz) was issued by the Kingdom of Prussia to commemorate participation in the Second Schleswig War (1864), specifically the storming of the Düppeler Schanzen (Düppel Redoubts) on April 18, 1864. This decisive battle saw Prussian forces successfully breach Danish fortifications, securing a major victory in the war that led to Prussian and Austrian control over Schleswig and Holstein.

Medal Design:

• Obverse: Features a profile portrait of King Wilhelm I of Prussia, surrounded by the inscription “WILHELM KOENIG VON PREUSSEN” (Wilhelm, King of Prussia).
• Reverse: Depicts an eagle with outstretched wings standing over a Danish cannon, symbolizing Prussian triumph. Above the eagle, the word “DÜPPEL” is prominently displayed, with the year “1864” below.

Ribbon:

• Original black, white, and orange tri-striped ribbon, indicative of Prussian military decorations.
• Ribbon shows wear, with some fraying at the top, consistent with age and handling.

Condition:

• Medal: Shows some tarnishing and patina, but the details remain sharp and legible.
• Ribbon: Well-preserved but exhibits minor fading and fraying, particularly at the top.

Significance for Collectors:

• A highly sought-after campaign medal for collectors of Prussian, German, and military history memorabilia.
• Excellent addition to a Second Schleswig War, Prussian militaria, or general 19th-century European conflict collection.
• Less commonly found with its original ribbon intact, increasing desirability.

Display & Preservation:

• Best stored in a climate-controlled environment to preserve the ribbon.
• Can be framed or mounted in a medal display case alongside other 19th-century Prussian campaign decorations.

A rare and historically significant medal from the wars of German unification, offering an excellent investment for collectors interested in Prussian military campaigns and King Wilhelm I’s era.