This guide will cover only the Prussian 15-Year Military Long Service Cross ribbon (15 Jahre Dienstauszeichnung).  It was instituted in 1913 to replace the Militär Dienstauszeichnung Schnalle 2. Klasse.   It was awarded to military active duty NCO's and enlisted personnel for 15 years active service and required the recommendation of their Commanding Officer.   Awards of this Cross continued until the 3rd Reich introduced a series of new medals.  These are very often found in WWI German medal groups and helps identifying the recipient as a Prussian.

The 15-Year Long Service Cross was worn with a blue silk woven ribbon (UV-negative, usually 32-35 mm wide).  The workmanship (weft and weaving) was of a high quality.

(Photo pending)

Militär Dienstauszeichnung Schnalle 2. Klasse

My best advice remains:  Buy only from a reputable dealer who specializes in Prussian medals.   For your convenience, an index to Prussian medal guides is located at:  http://reviews.ebay.com/Prussian-Medal-Guides-Index_W0QQugidZ10000000002387411.  Please visit my blog (http://blogs.ebay.com/tsa-li) and/or guides for further information.  Thank you for your visit!