Physical Description

A circular medal, constructed of bronze. The obverse features the left-facing portraits of Duke Friedrich and Duchess Bathildis with the inscription ‘FRIEDRICH BATHILDIS’ on the left and ‘F. U. F. Z. W. U. P.’ on the right. Below the duke’s neck is the stamp cutter’s signature ‘R. KOWARZIK’. The reverse features the inscription ‘FÜR TREUES WIRKEN IN EISERNER ZEIT 1915’ (‘for loyal work in iron times 1915’), surrounded by a wreath of palm branches with a heart at the top and bottom. On a loop for suspension, on a black ribbon with inner red and outer yellow borders.

History

The Friedrich-Bathildis Medal was founded on December 24, 1915 by Prince Friedrich. It was conferred upon men and women of all classes who rendered exceptional wartime service in the fields of charity and war aid. Women became eligible to receive the award on the suggestion of Princess Bathildis.

The medal was awarded to 306 recipients.