Bar with the Non-Combatants China and South West Africa Medals

Photo © JW Collection

Note that the medals appear at a 45 degree angle and in reverse order of seniority. This type of bar (known as a "Frackspange"), was for wear on a tuxedo or evening dress and would follow the angle of the lapel thus showing the most senior decoration at the top. From upper right to lower left they are-

Prussian Order of the Red Eagle, fourth class
1870-71 Franco-Prussian War Medal for non-combatants worn on a combatants ribbon. This distinction may have been for reservists.
1866 Battle of Königgrätz Medal
1864 Second Schleswig War Medal
for combatants
1904-08 South West Africa Campaign Medal for non-combatants
1900-01 China Campaign Medal for non-combatants
Prussian Wilhelm I Centenary Medal

The original owner of this medal bar was an officer who served in a total of five campaigns including all three Wars of German Unification. He fought in both the Second Schleswig War against Denmark in 1864 and the Austro-Prussian War of 1866. He was possibly a reservist in the Franco-Prussian War 1870-71 and later served in a non-combatant role in both the Boxer and Herero Rebellions.

 
     
     

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