Imperial German Medal Bar with Battle Clasps – World War I Naval and Combat Awards

This impressive Imperial German medal bar features five significant awards from World War I and the immediate post-war period. The inclusion of battle clasps commemorating key battles and campaigns makes this set particularly noteworthy, especially for collectors of naval and combat decorations. Each medal is mounted on a bar with appropriate ribbons, presenting a cohesive and striking display.

Medals Included:

1. Iron Cross 2nd Class (1914)

   • A standard yet iconic decoration of the Imperial German forces awarded for bravery in combat.
   • The classic iron core with silvered frame exhibits fine patina, highlighting its authenticity and age.
   • Condition: Very Good with minor wear consistent with age.

2. Hindenburg Cross for Combatants (1914-1918)

   • This post-war award was issued to veterans of World War I. It features crossed swords, indicating active combat participation.
   • The wreath and embossed dates “1914-1918” are crisply rendered, and the original ribbon is intact.
   • Condition: Excellent.

3. Kriegsabzeichen für die Marine (Naval War Badge)

   • Awarded for service in the Imperial German Navy during World War I. This award is a fine bronze cross adorned with an anchor, symbolizing naval valor.
   • Inscribed “Zur See – Im Felde” (“At Sea – In the Field”).
   • Condition: Very Good; light surface wear consistent with use.

4. Silesian Eagle 2nd Class (Für Schlesien)

   • A distinctive post-war decoration awarded to Freikorps troops who participated in the Silesian Uprisings (1919-1921).
   • The imposing black eagle with a silver crescent and detailed banner adds a unique visual element to the medal bar.
   • Condition: Excellent; well-preserved with intact ribbon.

5. Combat Clasps – Campaign Bars

   • Above the medals are five rectangular gold clasps listing major campaigns and battles:
     • Ypern (Ypres)
     • Somme
     • Yser
     • Flandernschlacht (1917) (Flanders Battle)
     • Durchbruchschlacht (1918) (Breakthrough Battle)
   • These clasps were likely awarded for direct involvement in these critical Western Front battles.
   • Condition: Excellent; gold finish remains vivid.

Historical Significance:

This medal bar is a superb representation of an Imperial German sailor or combatant who likely served both at sea and in land-based campaigns. The addition of prominent battle clasps is rare, suggesting significant combat experience across pivotal World War I fronts, including the Western Front's infamous battles. The Silesian Eagle indicates continued service into the turbulent post-war Freikorps campaigns.

This piece tells the story of dedication, bravery, and military service during one of the most defining periods in German history.

Condition and Authenticity:

• Medals and ribbons: Show signs of age-appropriate wear, minor fraying on ribbons, and natural patina.
• Mounting bar: Sturdy with intact pin on reverse, original stitching visible.
• Clasps: Sharp detailing, gold finish remains strong.

This bar is in very good condition overall and retains excellent visual appeal for display.

Date Range:

1914–1921 (World War I through Freikorps era).

Display Suggestions:

• Mounted in a shadow box or display case alongside related historical artifacts such as naval photographs, period documents, or a sailor’s service record.
• Perfect for a collector specializing in German naval or World War I combat decorations.