Imperial German “3. Weihnachten im Felde 1916” Christmas Commemorative Badge

This finely cast and lightly enameled tin badge was issued to German soldiers spending their third Christmas in the field during World War I, December 1916. The raised inscription reads “3. Weihnachten im Felde 1916” (“Third Christmas in the Field 1916”), beneath a radiant star—symbolizing both the Star of Bethlehem and the enduring hope of victory and homecoming. Below, crossed fir branches and a sword intertwine, representing faith and the soldier’s duty amid the hardship of war.

These badges were distributed by the Kriegsfürsorgeamt (War Welfare Office) and local military support committees to commemorate the holiday under extraordinary circumstances. They were often included in gift parcels sent from home front organizations to soldiers at the front, reminding them of solidarity with the German people. By late 1916, morale was strained following the battles of Verdun and the Somme, making these small tokens deeply significant to those who received them.

The reverse is marked “K.u.K. Kriegsfürsorgeamt,” indicating production for the Austro-Hungarian War Welfare Office, whose badges were also widely distributed among German allies on the Eastern and Balkan fronts. This example measures approximately 1.25 x 1 inch and retains original silvered finish with traces of green enamel on the fir branches. The pinback remains complete and functional, with surface wear consistent with age and light oxidation to the reverse.

Badges like this one capture the intersection of faith, endurance, and camaraderie that defined the soldier’s experience in the trenches. They are treasured among collectors for their symbolic artistry and connection to the human side of the Great War.

Condition very good overall with honest field wear.