Prussian Red Eagle Order 4th Class with Swords – Damaged Medallion

This is a Prussian Red Eagle Order (Roter Adlerorden) 4th Class with Swords, awarded during the late Imperial German period. This military version of the Red Eagle Order features a Maltese cross with crossed gilt swords between the arms, indicating that it was issued in recognition of military merit rather than civil service.

The center medallion bears the famed red eagle of Brandenburg-Prussia against a white enamel background, surrounded by a raised gilt rim. Unfortunately, the enameled center on this example is significantly damaged, with noticeable flaking and cracking throughout the eagle depiction. Despite the loss, the remaining red and green pigment still conveys the original design’s presence and significance.

The reverse of the medallion shows the crowned monogram "FW" (Friedrich Wilhelm) in raised silver, clearly legible. The medal retains its original black-and-white striped ribbon, now moderately soiled and worn, with scattered small holes—likely from prolonged display or storage. This variation was typically worn from the buttonhole or pinned to the tunic in formal military attire.

Condition:

• Medal body shows patina and age-appropriate wear

• Gilt swords intact but slightly tarnished

• Center enamel is badly damaged (see images)

• Ribbon has moth damage and fraying

Historical Context:
The Order of the Red Eagle was one of the most prestigious honors bestowed by the Kingdom of Prussia, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries. This 4th Class version with swords would have been awarded to junior officers and enlisted men for bravery or leadership in the field. The inclusion of the swords marks it as a wartime issue.

Display Suggestions:
Given the visible damage, this piece serves as a compelling example of wartime issue and wear. It would be well-suited for a shadowbox display with other frontline decorations or as part of a study collection illustrating variations in condition and manufacture.

Collector Appeal:
Collectors of Prussian or Imperial German orders will recognize this as a desirable decoration, despite the damage. Its military issue, combined with the original ribbon and intact reverse monogram, still makes it a worthwhile acquisition for those focusing on field-awarded honors or transitional medals of the late Kaiserreich.