1914 Imperial German Oberesass District Turnfest Badge

This original Imperial German commemorative badge was issued for the Oberelsass (Upper Alsace) District Gymnastics Festival (Bezirksturnfest) held at St. Stephan in Mühlhausen im Elsass (Mulhouse, Alsace) in July 1914, just weeks before the outbreak of World War I.

The front features the traditional Turner Cross (Turnerkreuz), the iconic symbol of the German gymnastics movement (Turnverein), surrounded by an attractive openwork oak leaf design. The raised scroll across the top reads:

“OB. ELS. BEZIRKSTURNFEST d. ETB. ST. STEPHAN – MÜHLHAUSEN i. E. VII 1914.”

Gymnastics festivals, known as Turnfests, were major cultural and athletic gatherings throughout Imperial Germany. Badges such as this were produced in limited quantities for participants and attendees and are highly collectible today, especially examples from the historically significant Alsace region. Since the event took place only weeks before the First World War began, this badge represents one of the final major peacetime athletic festivals held in Imperial German Alsace.

Features

• Original Imperial German Turnfest commemorative badge
• Dated July 1914
• Issued for the Oberelsass District Gymnastics Festival
• Location: St. Stephan, Mühlhausen im Elsass (Mulhouse, Alsace)
• Openwork design with traditional Turner Cross and oak leaves
• Original horizontal pinback attached
• Silvered white metal construction
• Authentic untouched patina

Condition

Very good original condition with honest age-related wear and oxidation. The original pin and catch remain intact. The badge has not been cleaned or polished, preserving its original finish and character. Please review all photos carefully for overall condition.

A scarce and historically significant piece of Imperial German sporting history that would make an excellent addition to any collection of pre-WWI German memorabilia, Turnverein artifacts, or World War I-era collectibles.