Prussian War Merit Medal With Ribbon, Silvered, c. 1873–1918

This medal is identified as a Prussian War Merit Medal (Kriegsverdienstmedaille), a decoration awarded for wartime merit not directly involving combat, most commonly to non-commissioned officers, enlisted men, and civilians serving the Prussian state during periods of war. The example shown is the standard round medal suspended from its original black ribbon with two narrow white edge stripes, the correct ribbon for this award.

The medal is struck in silvered metal, circular in form, with a raised rim and a neatly fitted suspension loop and ring. The obverse displays the crowned royal cipher “W” for Wilhelm, executed in flowing script and surrounded by decorative flourishes. The crown is crisply detailed, indicating a quality official strike rather than a private or souvenir piece. The reverse bears the inscription “KRIEGS VERDIENST” in two lines, encircled by a laurel wreath tied at the base with a ribbon bow. The lettering and wreath remain sharp, with only light softening from age. The ribbon shows honest period wear, including fraying, fading, and handling marks, but remains intact and correctly attached, reinforcing its originality.

The War Merit Medal was instituted to recognize valuable service in support of the war effort, including logistical, administrative, medical, and industrial contributions. Unlike combat awards, this decoration acknowledged the broader machinery of war and the individuals whose work sustained the Prussian military system. Medals such as this were frequently awarded during the Franco-Prussian War and later conflicts, including the First World War, making them representative of the era’s total-war structure.

For collectors, this medal occupies an important place within Imperial German and Prussian award groups, especially when encountered complete with its original ribbon. While not rare, authentic examples with undisturbed suspension and period ribbon are increasingly difficult to find in clean, honest condition. It is an essential foundational piece for collectors assembling Prussian medal bars, home-front award groups, or representative displays of Imperial German decorations.

Condition is very good overall. The medal shows even age toning and light surface wear consistent with period handling. No evidence of cleaning, polishing, or repair is observed. The ribbon displays expected wear and fraying but is original and uncut. Suspension ring and loop are intact and appear undisturbed.