Description
Very uncommon and very sought after example of a pre WWI Imperial Bavarian Army Marksmanship Lanyard 7th Class. Consisting of very high quality materials and craftsmanship as all early Imperial items do. This piece is made from greenish-blue cord with interwoven threads of gold. The 2 nickel hooks have fully functional hardware, the gold shield insignia bears a wreath with the Bravarian coat of arms image. There are 2 originally attached acorns, with these and the gold coloring we know this is the higher grade of 7th for this award. Overall a remarkable piece of an Imperial German award that is hardly ever found, let alone available on the open market!
Note – The history of the Schützenschnur (Marksmanship Lanyard) dates back to the Eighty Years’ War where Spanish troops were ordered to hang any Dutch person who carried a musket. Therefore Spanish musketeers began to carry ropes which were often carried over one shoulder. Awarding a cord as a decoration began in the early 18th century in Prussia under Frederick William I of Prussia.
