History

The Commemorative Medal of Captain Karl Spindler was awarded in 1931 to surviving former crew members of the SMS Libau.

The medal commemorates the 15th anniversary celebration, taking place in the USA, of the unfortunate journey of the German steamboat Libau, commanded by Lieutenant Karl Spindler, off the Irish coast. They were trying to smuggle weapons into Ireland to help the Irish nationalists, who were organizing an anti-British Easter uprising. However, the plot was foiled and Spindler and his crew became prisoners of war.

The obverse of the medal features the bust of Karl Spindler. At the bottom, the bust is flanked by two crossed olive branches. The inscription reads “Blockade Runner His Majesty’s Auxiliary Cruiser Libau (Aud) Heading towards Ireland” and “Captain Karl Spindler Commander of His Majesty’s Ship Libau”.

The centre of the reverse displays an Irish inscription in seven horizontal lines, translating to “In Recognition for Services to Ireland During Easter 1916” and “Decorated by the US Executive Committee for Freedom”.

The original ribbon illustrates the colours of the Irish and German flags.

The medals were designed by John T. Ryan and manufactured by Godet in Berlin.

The medals are made of bronze, except for the one which was presented to Karl Spindler in New York. It was made of gold.