Physical Description

A smooth circular medal with a raised edge, constructed of gold. The obverse features the crowned and intertwined monogram ‘CWE’, with a laurel branch on each side, tied at the bottom by a ribbon. The edge of the medal is in the form of a very narrow, stylized laurel wreath. The reverse features the inscription ‘VERTHEIDIGER DES VATERLANDES’ (‘defender of the fatherland’). On a loop for suspension, on a light blue ribbon with yellow borders.

History

The Bravery Medal was established in 1796 by Prince-Elector Clemens Wenzeslaus of Saxony. The Gold Medal was conferred for acts of extraordinary bravery. Acts of bravery included rescuing fellow soldiers or a commanding officer from danger, and saving or capturing a trophy of war, such as a standard, from the enemy. The decoration was also awarded for repeated acts of bravery.