WW1 Austro-Hungarian Wound Medal for 4 Wounds (Verwundetenmedaille mit 4 Verwundungen)

This is an original example of the Austro-Hungarian Wound Medal (Verwundetenmedaille) awarded to soldiers of the Austro-Hungarian Empire who were wounded in action during the First World War. Instituted on August 12, 1917 by Emperor Karl I, the medal was intended to honor the sacrifices and physical suffering of those wounded on the front lines.

This version features four small metal stripes (Verwundungsstreifen) attached to the ribbon, each denoting a separate wound received in combat. The medal itself is made of zinc, with a silver-gray finish that has developed a dark, honest patina over time, characteristic of these late-war issue pieces. The obverse bears the inscription “Laeso Militi” (“To the wounded soldier”) in Latin, surrounded by a laurel wreath and surmounted by the Imperial crown of Austria. The reverse is blank, as issued.

Austro-Hungarian troops fought across multiple brutal theaters during WW1—from the freezing heights of the Italian Alps against Italy, to the Eastern Front against Russia, and in the Balkans. Wound medals with four stripes are significantly less common than single-stripe variants, indicating a soldier who endured repeated injury—likely over several years and in some of the empire’s most desperate fighting.

This medal offers a tangible reminder of the intense human cost of the First World War and is an important artifact for collectors focused on Austro-Hungarian militaria or the broader scope of Central Powers awards.

At VDG Militaria, we are dedicated to providing collectors with an exceptional selection of original military antiques. Our passion for history and commitment to authenticity ensure that every item we offer is thoroughly researched, accurately described, and meticulously photographed.

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