WWI Kaiser Reich commemorative medal Ich hatt einen kameraden

Commemorative token in recognition for donations for war graves “I Had a Comrade”, other name “Iron Medal”

This commemorative coin was donated or distributed by the state welfare organization (for war graves) in 1919. It was not an award or medal for service to caring. The medal was used to secure and design the graves of fallen and deceased warriors from World War I. The commemorative coin was sold and the proceeds used for the tombs. The work of the welfare organization came to a standstill as a result of inflation and the economic crisis. In 1925 the Reichswehr Ministry launched an appeal to revive the welfare organization. All units and military departments were called upon to promote sales outside the army in a suitable form.

Hermann Kurt Hosaeus (1875-1958) was the sculptor, medalist and university professor who designed the memorial coin.

Round medal made of dark stained iron without a rim. Above an embossed eyelet with a small ring.

Front:

On the upper edge the inscription: ICH HATT EINEN KAMERADEN
In the center is a standing soldier in uniform, with a steel helmet and a rifle across his back.
This stands on a pedestal. The left foot on a raised grave border or pedestal.
To his left is a stylized plant with 3 groups of leaves.
The soldier's arms are spread out. He is holding a branch of the plant in his left hand.
Back:

In the lower part a branched oak branch to the left and right.
Including the name of the creator - HOSAEUS -.
In the upper area is the 7-line, raised font: - AM SCHMUCK DER RUHESTAETTEN UNSERER TAPFERN HALF WER DIESES EISENZEICHEN NAHM.

condition - excellent

Code: 50265