This guide will cover only the Prussian Landsturm Long Service Badge.  The Landsturm Dienstauszeichnung Schnalle (often abbreviated Landsturm DA) was by Prussia's King Friedrich Wilhelm III.  It was designed to be worn slighly below the heart.  Awarded to the Prussian Landsturm, there were three minimum requirements:  

1. Twelve years minimum Landsturm service and    
2. Participated in a campaign or at least 3 months active service and    
3. Recommended by their Commanding Officer. 

Prussian Cabinet Order, dated 4 December 1871, specified that it would be worn after all orders, decorations and campaign medals.   This rule was generally followed until this award was discontinued in early-1913.  It's important to remember that the Prussian active duty and Landwehr military had a similar award which is often confused with this one.  In many ways, this award is very similar to the British Long Service and Good Conduct Medal.

The Landsturm Dienstauszeichnung Schnalle or Prussian Landwehr Long Service Badge is a blackened iron frame (making it responsive to a magnet test), approximately 43mm (about 1 3/4 inches) wide by 24mm (about 3/4 inch) high and has a blue woven ribbon (UV-negative) with dark blue narrow edging.  The badge design has F.W.III. centered on a black background with silver border - very similar to the Iron Cross.  As originally awarded, this badge was sewn directly onto the uniform but most had a pin-back for easy attachment and removal. 

(photo pending)

Landsturm Dienstauszeichnung Schnalle

It is interesting to note that there are very few copies on the market due to the relatively low demand.  Originals typically sell for €10 to €40 and are highly under-rated as collectibles.  My best advice remains:  Buy only from a reputable dealer who specializes in Prussian medals.  

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