Physical Description

A circular medal constructed of silver. The obverse bears a crowned eagle with outstretched wings with the letter "F" on its chest, below the eagle is the inscription "S.P.Q.E.". The eagle is encompassed by a border with the inscription "GOTT SPRACH ES WERDE LICHT UND ES WARD LICHT" (God said Let there be Light and thus it was). The reverse centre bears the inscription "FÜR DEUTSCHLANDS BEFREIUNG 1813.1814" (for the liberation of Germany) and is encompassed by a border with the inscription "SCHAAR DER FREIWILLIGEN VON FRANKFURT AM MAIN" (regiment of volunteers of Frankfurt am Main). On a loop for suspension on a red and white striped ribbon.

History

The Commemorative Medal for Volunteers was instituted by the Senate of the Free City of Frankfurt on July 5, 1814. The medal was awarded to all individuals who voluntarily participated in the campaigns against Napoleonic France in 1814.

Originally, the Senate planned to only commission a Silver Medal, but in November 1814, a Gold Medal grade was added. The Gold Medal was conferred upon individuals of distinguished rank and social standing. A Gold Medal with diamonds was awarded to Prince Philip of Hesse-Homburg, who was the General of the 6th Army Corps.