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Title Austro-German Victory medal
Nationality Austrian
Period 1914
Sold

The inscription on the reverse of this gilt medal roughly translates: 'They were justly drawn into the war and will surely bring home the victory'. 'They' refers to Kaiser Bill of Germany and Kaiser Franz-Josef of Austria, whose images are on the obverse. 'Viribus Unitis' means 'with combined strength'.

This little gem (35mm across), in die-struck gilding metal, illustrates the widespread expectation on both sides of a swift victory: 'by the leaves of autumn', in Kaiser Bill's own words! I seem to remember that earlier Napoleon had had a medal struck for the invasion of England in a similar vein. Perhaps between the victory at Tannenberg and the retreat from the Marne there was some justification for what subsequently became a rather short-lived idea, in the ensuing stalemate on both fronts.

Condition is near EF, except for some minor scratches on the reverse field.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Militaria : Medals : Austrian : 20th Century]

testimonials

[From a vendor, rather than a buyer]

I'm delighted that you are happy with the badge and I hope you can sell it to someone who will value owning it.

I tried to sell it on eBay but they won't accept Nazi items. I then contacted several dealers via a Google search who mostly offered me £40-£50 after some haggling. Most of the other dealers tried to conceal its true value in their replies and also lacked manners which doesn't inspire confidence.

Ultimately it's about trust. I should think that most prospective sellers have done their own research and therefore know roughly what their item is worth. You were the only dealer who had the integrity to concede that my valuation was approximately correct and I respect your comment that you can't offer this as you need to make a profit. Your honest approach is greatly appreciated and I felt comfortable taking the risk in sending it to you.

Thank you for a smooth transaction

C D, UK, 01.07.2015

Many thanks - badge recieved - excellent one!

A K, UK, 06.02.2014

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