1897 Kaiser Wilhelm I Centenary Medal – Parade Mounted

This 1897 Kaiser Wilhelm I Centenary Medal was issued to commemorate the 100th birthday of Kaiser Wilhelm I (1797-1888), the first German Emperor and King of Prussia. Established by Kaiser Wilhelm II on March 22, 1897, the medal was awarded to military personnel, civil servants, and veterans who had served during Wilhelm I’s reign. This example is parade mounted, meaning it was prepared for wear in formal and ceremonial settings.

The obverse of the medal features a detailed portrait of Kaiser Wilhelm I in profile, wearing his iconic Pickelhaube (spiked helmet). Surrounding the image is the inscription:
“WILHELM DER GROSSE DEUTSCHER KAISER KOENIG VON PREUSSEN”
(“Wilhelm the Great, German Emperor, King of Prussia”).

The reverse side of the medal is adorned with laurel and oak leaves, symbolizing strength and victory, along with the Imperial Crown, scepter, and orb, which represent the monarchy’s authority. The inscription reads:
“ZUM ANDENKEN AN DEN HUNDERTSTEN GEBURTSTAG DES GROSSEN KAISERS WILHELMI 1797 – 22 MAERZ – 1897”
(“In memory of the 100th birthday of the great Kaiser Wilhelm I, March 22, 1897”).

This medal was awarded to all active German Army and Navy personnel in 1897, as well as veterans and state officials who had served under Wilhelm I. It was suspended from a yellow silk ribbon, reflecting the House of Hohenzollern’s official colors.

Wilhelm I was a key figure in Germany’s unification in 1871, reigning during a period of major military victories, including the Second Schleswig War (1864), Austro-Prussian War (1866), and the Franco-Prussian War (1870-71). Under his leadership, Germany emerged as a dominant European power. This medal was issued to honor his legacy and reinforce the strength of the German Empire.

A historically significant award, this parade-mounted example remains a sought-after collectible, representing the Imperial German era and its military and political achievements.

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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