Digital museum showcasing the collection of worldwide legends over the years! 千古不朽博物館展示多年來收藏的世界傳奇故事!
German Army China Service Commemorative Medal
(Full Size)
德軍中國服役紀念章
(官方版)
Item number: M280
Year: AD 1897-1901
Material: Bronze
Size: 34.6 x 29.9 x 1.7 mm
Weight: 9.65 g
Provenance: Private Collector, UK, 2024
The origin of this commemorative medal has been the subject of varying interpretations.
The most common explanation is that it originates from a medal issued after Germany’s participation in the suppression of the Boxer Rebellion as part of the Eight-Nation Alliance. However, this medal is notably different from another series of German official medals for the Eight-Nation Alliance. Another theory suggests that the medal was minted after Germany occupied Qingdao in AD 1897. The more credible interpretation denies the official nature of this medal, suggesting that it was privately minted by German soldiers who served in China. Regardless of the explanation, it can be determined that the medal was made to commemorate the service of German soldiers in China.
This brass commemorative badge has the inscription “遵主聖佑忠君報國” (which means “Obey the Lord, Serve the Country with Loyalty”) engraved in a circular pattern. At the centre is a typical depiction of Emperor Wilhelm II’s left-profile bust in military attire. The reverse side is inscribed in German with “Zum Andenken an meine Dienstzeit” (“In memory of my service time in China”) and features a cross emblem along with various weapons, bayonets, and flags. This particular item does not come with a ribbon.