German Awards - Commemorative Badge of the Hessian State Railway 40 years

This memorial sign was established on November 25, 1905 by the Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig in 2 stages. They were introduced in a modified form following the honorary signs introduced for Prussian employees of state railways, also for Hessian officials and employees of state railways. The awards were given to Hessian railway workers after 25 years and 40 years of service without charge. The time spent on military operations was calculated. On a memorial sign for 40 years, the crown and shield are gilded with numbers. The main difference from Prussian commemorative signs is the shape of the crown. The number of awards for the award for 25 years is about 3335, and for 40 years - about 556 pieces. Production, like Prussian badges, was carried out by Johann Wagner and his son, Berlin. Source: J. Nimmergut, Deutsche Orden und Ehrenzeichen bis 1945, vol. I, 1997.

Hollow embossed openwork badge in silver. The shield and crown are gilded. At the back is a horizontal pin. The manufacturer stamped on the back panel.

Front side:

• Central wheel with Hessian crown between wings and wheel.
• The wheel stands on a rectangular sign with the number 40 on it.
• Under the shield below is a cross-tied laurel wreath.
• The tops of the wreath touch the wings of the impeller from above.

Downside:

• Hollow embossed. (negative front)
• A horizontal icon is attached to the two wings.
• Attached to the rectangular plate is a plate indicating the manufacturer:
• - JOH.WAGNER - & - SON -/- crescent, crown - BERLIN.W. - 800 -.