Original Imperial German WWI Bavarian 25 Year Fire Department Service Medal with RibbonThis is a original Imperial German WWI 25 Year Bavarian Fire Service Medal with faded ribbon. It was originally instituted by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in June 1884, the design and composition were updated in the post WWI Free State of Bavaria era to honor members of volunteer fire brigades who rendered 25 years of loyal service.
The medal features a period fireman's helmet surrounded by decorative foliage on the obverse. The reverse is inscribed “FÜR 25 JÄHRIGE DIENSTZEIT” (For 25 Years of Service). There are no maker marks. There are a few tiny areas of finish loss, but overall maintains nice details.
It retains a dark, age toned finish with nice detail throughout and comes complete with its original ribbon. Unfortunately the blue and white striped ribbon is completely faded. The ribbon shows noticeable age and wear, particularly along the upper edge. There are some tiny pin holes that suggest it was pinned or sewn. We are not exactly sure.
An interesting early German fire service decoration in good overall condition.
