History

The Bravery Medal was likely instituted in 1807 or 1808 by Grand Duke Ferdinand of Würzburg. The Grand Duchy of Würzburg was a member of the Confederation of the Rhine, a union of sixteen German states that was created by Napoleon Bonaparte. This medal was awarded to military personnel who demonstrated outstanding bravery during the Napoleonic Wars. 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.

A commission was established to determine whether an individual would receive the medal in silver or gold.

It is believed that the medal was awarded until the failed Russian Campaign of 1812/1813.