Commemorative Medal for the 100th Birthday of Kaiser Wilhelm I – 1897 Issue with Original Yellow Ribbon

This beautifully struck bronze medal was issued in 1897 to commemorate the 100th birthday of Kaiser Wilhelm I, the first German Emperor and King of Prussia. The obverse features a left-facing bust of Wilhelm I in uniform and Pickelhaube, surrounded by the raised inscription:

"WILHELM DER GROSSE DEUTSCHER KAISER KOENIG VON PREUSSEN"
(Wilhelm the Great, German Emperor, King of Prussia)

The reverse bears a commemorative dedication framed by a floral motif and crowned imperial architecture:

"ZUM ANDENKEN AN DEN HUNDERTSTEN GEBURTSTAG DES GROSSEN KAISERS WILHELM I. 1797–22 MAERZ–1897"
(In memory of the 100th birthday of the Great Kaiser Wilhelm I, 1797–22 March–1897)

The medal is suspended from its original yellow ribbon, which shows some honest wear and a few small pulls typical for its age but remains fully intact. The medal itself retains excellent detail with only minor age-related patina, making it an appealing example for collectors of German imperial decorations, Kaiserreich commemoratives, or 19th-century Prussian memorabilia.

Condition: Excellent overall; ribbon has minor fraying and pinholes.
Diameter: Approx. 33mm
Material: Bronze

This piece honors not only a towering figure in German unification but also serves as a striking visual testament to the patriotic fervor of late-19th century Imperial Germany.