History

The Commemorative Medal for War Grave Donations was donated in 1919 by the state welfare organization for war graves. It was conferred upon German citizens who donated money to help erect and decorate graves for German soldiers who were killed during the First World War.

The Medal was designed by Professor Kurt Hosaeus, and the reverse features his name "HOSAEUS".

The obverse inscription translates to "I had a comrade". The reverse inscription roughly translates to "Those who have received this token of iron have helped with the adornment of the resting places of our brave ones".

The obverse and reverse inscriptions are taken from the traditional lament of the Germany Armed Forces "Der gute Kamerad" (the good comrade).

This medal is also known as the Iron Medal.