Germany - Imperial: German Red Cross War Aid Collection Fund Raising Medallion, cast iron form, as produced in 1916 by the renowned sculptor and medallist August Gaul. Of large form, this measuring 70 mm in diameter, the obverse bears the image of a large tree in relief, and the embossed dates: ‘1914’ and 1915’ with the third date ‘1916’ only partially discernible, as are the medallists details ‘GAUL’ which are now absent owing to part of the edge having become fractured and snapped off. The reverse has a surround ants and bees motif in relief, with the central embossed inscription: ‘Das Allermindeste Müsst Ihr Entdecken Auf Das Geschwindeste In Allen Ecken Goethe’ (The very least you must discover, with the utmost speed, in every corner - Goethe), a quote from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe. The medallion has been modified for wear with a hold drilled through it at 12 o’clock, and a ring inserted. An interesting piece which was clearly modified for wear.
Condition: one side sheered off after becoming fractured, damaged caused intentionally around the insertion of the ring suspension, overall Fine.
This medal, known as the “Sammlung Altgummi” (Old Rubber Collection) Medal, was given to citizens and school children who gathered raw materials - specifically scrap rubber - to assist the German war economy under Red Cross charity campaigns. The inclusion of the symbols of ants and bees is for tireless collective work, industriousness, and civic teamwork. Goethe’s quote served as a patriotic rallying cry urging citizens to search every corner of their homes quickly for any scrap materials that could support the campaign.
