Prussian War Merit Medal 1870–71 with Original Combat Ribbon

This is an original Prussian War Merit Medal (Kriegsdenkmünze) for the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–1871, presented here with its original combatant’s ribbon and period suspension. The medal is struck in bronze-toned metal and remains suspended from its correct yellow ribbon with black edge stripes, the combatant version awarded to soldiers and non-commissioned officers who actively served in the campaign. The ribbon shows honest age, toning, and field wear, with visible period stitching and backing consistent with late 19th-century mounting practices.

The obverse features the right-facing bust of King Wilhelm I of Prussia, rendered in strong relief with crisp facial detail still clearly visible despite surface patina. The surrounding legend “WILHELM I KOENIG VON PREUSSEN” remains fully legible. The reverse bears the oak-leaf wreath encircling the inscription “FÜR TAPFERKEIT UND TREUE” (“For Bravery and Loyalty”), a phrase that encapsulates the Prussian military ethos of the era. The wreath detail is well preserved, with even wear and no evidence of modern tooling or enhancement.

Historically, this medal was instituted to recognize service in the wars of German unification, specifically the decisive conflict against France that led directly to the proclamation of the German Empire in January 1871. While not a bravery award in the modern sense, it was issued only to those who had served honorably in the field, making it a tangible artifact of one of the most important turning points in German and European history. Medals retained with their original ribbons, particularly combatant examples showing authentic wear rather than replacement ribbons, are increasingly difficult to find.

From a collector’s standpoint, this example is especially appealing due to its untouched condition and correct period assembly. The medal has not been cleaned or artificially brightened; the surfaces show natural oxidation and patina consistent with age. The ribbon, though worn and frayed in places, is original and complete—attributes strongly favored by advanced collectors who prioritize authenticity over cosmetic perfection.

Condition is  good overall, with even wear to the medal and an honest, well-aged ribbon exhibiting expected fraying, staining, and period reinforcement stitching. No structural issues are noted.