- Time Period: Pre-WW1
- Institution: 1 February 1833
- Country: Germany (Kingdom of Prussia)
The Lifesaving Medal (on “Rettungsmedaille am Band” in German) was a civil decoration of the Kingdom of Prussia.
Established 1 February 1833, it was awarded to individuals who had saved another person’s life, at risk to their own.
This medal is referred to as the Lifesaving Medal on Band to differentiate it from a previous non-portable award established in 1802. Otto von Bismarck received it for rescuing a drowning man.
The Lifesaving Medal Design
The medal is circular and struck in silver. The obverse presents the head of King Friedrich Wilhelm III in relief, facing left, in the center.
Around it is circumscribed FRIEDRICH WILHELM III KÖNIG VON PREUSSEN. The reverse has inscribed FÜR RETTUNG AUS GEFAR (FOR RESCUE FROM DANGER) within an oak leaf wreath, measuring 24.79 mm in diameter, on loop for suspension from the period original ribbon, and in fine condition.
