Austria-Hungary – Silver Medal for Bravery (Tapferkeitsmedaille) – I Class, Type IV (1914–1916)
Diameter: 31.22 mm
Original Ribbon: Included
Condition: Good to very good (considering its age and usage)
Historical Background
Established in 1789 by Emperor Joseph II, the Medal for Bravery (Tapferkeitsmedaille) was one of Austria-Hungary’s highest military honors, awarded for acts of exceptional courage and valor in combat.
The Type IV version (1914–1916) was introduced during the reign of Emperor Franz Joseph I and was awarded extensively during World War I.
After the collapse of Austria-Hungary in 1918, this medal became a symbol of the Empire’s military history and traditions.
Design Features
Obverse (Front) Details
Right-facing profile of Emperor Franz Joseph I, wearing a laurel wreath, symbolizing his authority and the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s military traditions.
Inscription: "FRANZ JOSEPH I. V.G.G. KAISER V ÖSTERREICH" (Franz Joseph I, by the Grace of God, Emperor of Austria).
Reverse (Back) Details
Large inscription: "DER TAPFERKEIT" (For Bravery), framed within a laurel wreath, a classical military symbol of honor and valor.
Suspension & Ribbon
Worn on an original Austrian military ribbon, which enhances the medal’s authenticity and collectible value.
Award Criteria & Classes
The Bravery Medal was issued in multiple classes, depending on rank and degree of valor displayed in combat:
Gold Medal for Bravery – Awarded to officers for extraordinary acts of valor.
Silver Medal for Bravery (I Class) – (This medal) Awarded to non-commissioned officers (NCOs) and enlisted personnel for exceptional courage.
Silver Medal for Bravery (II Class) – Lower-ranking version of the Silver Medal, awarded for notable but lesser acts of bravery.
Bronze Medal for Bravery – Introduced in 1915 due to the increasing number of awards in WWI.
Significance in World War I
During WWI (1914–1918), this medal was one of the most widely awarded Austro-Hungarian military decorations, recognizing soldiers who showed outstanding heroism under fire.
It was awarded to Austrian, Hungarian, and other Austro-Hungarian forces fighting on both Eastern and Western fronts.
Recipients of the Silver Bravery Medal I Class often displayed acts of heroism under enemy fire, including rescuing fellow soldiers, leading charges, or defending key positions.
This Austria-Hungary Silver Medal for Bravery (I Class, Type IV, 1914–1916) represents the courage and valor of Austro-Hungarian soldiers during World War I. It is a significant historical artifact, reflecting the military traditions of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
For further authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess silver patina, strike details, and ribbon condition.