Prussian Fire Brigade Decoration
Institutedon.21 December 1933
Rarity – Rare.
Known Makers – PREUSS.STAATSMÜNZE
This award consists of an oval medal which has a raised edge line with, inset by 4 mm, a further similar one producing a tramline effect. On to the flat field produced is positioned the inscription which is started and stopped by a single stylised swastika that is placed at 6 o'clock. The inscription, running clockwise in rustic capitals is, FÜR VERDIENSTE UM DAS FEUERLÖSCHWESEN, which translates to, For Service in the Fire Brigade. The central field is broken just below the centre by a ground line, twice as thick as the tramlines. On to the ground line is positioned the torso of an old fashioned fireman. On his head he wears a fire helmet with neck cloth and is clad in a jerkin with a waist belt. On to his chest is placed the eagle of Prussia
The reverse is slightly convexed and smooth, with a needle pin similar to that employed to hold the ribbons on to a uniform. On the edge of the medal, slightly inset on either side is, in raised capital letters, the maker's name, PREUSS.STAATSMÜNZE, on the viewer's left and the silver content, SILBER 900 FEIN, on the right.
The medal was instituted on 21 December 1933 by the Prussian Minister of the Interior who awarded it on the recommendation of the Prussian Chief of Police. It was awarded for;
a) Any special act of bravery or merit.
b) 25 years continuous service in the fire brigade.
The award was discontinued on 22 December 1936 with the introduction of the Fire Brigade Decoration - First Class, and the Fire Brigade Decoration - Second Class, medal.
The presentation case is a two-piece hinged, rigid box with simulated black leather covering. The interior of the upper portion is padded white satin, while the base is covered by light blue velvet. Round the edge of the base and the lid is a ring of silver pellets and the two halves are fastened by a push button stud. It was accompanied by a citation, the design of which is unknown.
