Saxon Red Cross Landesnotopfer Medal Set – 1921 Relief Fund Issue

This rare and complete 1921 Saxon Red Cross Landesnotopfer Medal Set was issued by the Saxon Red Cross (Sächsisches Rotes Kreuz) in Dresden as part of a post-World War I relief fundraising campaign. The set contains four fundraising medals housed in their original white leatherette presentation case with a red cross and mining hammer insignia on the lid.

Each medal features:

• Obverse: A red cross and radiant starburst design, with the inscription “Landesnotopfer 1921 Für das Sächsische Rote Kreuz” (State Emergency Sacrifice 1921 for the Saxon Red Cross).
• Reverse: A depiction of a grieving mother and children, symbolizing the humanitarian aid needed in postwar Germany.
• Materials: Two medals in white metal (silver-tone), two in bronze with gilt borders.

Presentation Case Details:

• White textured exterior with Saxon Red Cross and mining hammer insignia
• Interior marked “Vom Sächsischen Roten Kreuz Dresden”
• Green velvet base with fitted recesses for all four medals

Historical Relevance

Following World War I, Germany faced severe economic hardship, food shortages, and widespread suffering, particularly in regions like Saxony. The Saxon Red Cross launched a fundraising campaign in 1921, issuing these medals to individuals who donated to relief efforts. The phrase “Landesnotopfer” (State Emergency Sacrifice) emphasized the dire need for humanitarian aid during this turbulent period.

The imagery on the medals—the Red Cross emblem and the mother with children—reflects postwar struggles and the organization’s role in alleviating suffering. These medals were not military decorations but charitable tokens of gratitude for donors who supported Saxon relief efforts.

Condition & Authenticity

• Condition: Excellent, with medals retaining crisp details and minimal wear
• Case: Well-preserved, minor aging on the leatherette exterior
• Markings: Clear and legible inscriptions on the medals and case interior
• Authenticity: 100% original, issued by the Saxon Red Cross in 1921

Date Range

Issued in 1921, following Germany’s postwar economic crisis.

Display Suggestions

This historically significant Red Cross set is perfect for:

• Framing with other humanitarian or Red Cross memorabilia
• Displaying in its original case as a complete collector’s set
• Showcasing alongside Weimar Republic-era charity and relief medals

Collector’s Appeal

• Rare, complete four-medal set in original presentation case
• Strong historical significance tied to Germany’s post-WWI humanitarian crisis
• Ideal for collectors of Red Cross, Saxon, or Weimar-era relief items
• Excellent addition to humanitarian, charity, or postwar aid medal collections