The collections of the German Historical Museum

8,000 objects are administered by the collection of decorations, which was build up as a special section of the Collection Militaria and comprises medals, awards, honorary titles, orders of merit, medals of loyalty, and medals for outstanding performances in military and civil matters, all of which were designed to be worn by their recipients. Present are both governmental and non-governmental decorations from different countries, organizations, parties, administrative authorities, and companies, etc.

Despite damages and losses during the past wars, the more than 500 decorations and medals from the former holdings of the Zeughaus still constitute the historically and culturally most valuable section of the collection. Among them are personal decorations of the German monarchs Wilhelm I., Albert von Sachsen, Friedrich III., Bismarck, and Luitpold von Bayern. These old decorations were made by important jewellers and medal engravers. They are of masterly craftsmanship.

A collection of decorations from the German territorial states before 1918 was originally built up in order to illustrate the differentiated awarding practice in the 19th century. But today, 20th century history is equally represented, especially by a large collection of East German decorations. Foundations and awarding procedures as well as the embossment and design of the decorations themselves illustrate the development of East Germany. The collection of governmental decorations of East Germany is almost complete -- as are various decorations conferred by organizations, parties, and firms. Outstanding are personal medals and decorations from the estates of Wilhelm Pieck, Otto Grotewohl, Walter Ulbricht, and Otto Winzer.

Foreign decorations prior to and after 1945 also belong in part to the collection. They have been gathered according to their political and military significance in reference to relationships and conflicts with Germany. The collection is ordered by nations and accessible for research purposes.

Have a look at the archive.