M.1909 Koppel (Belt) und
M.1916 Koppelschloß (Belt buckle)

The military uniform of the German army in the war consisted of a heavy leather Koppel (military belt) with a stamped metal Koppelschloß (belt buckle) bearing the insignia of the State for which you served. In the case of IR63, the State is Prussia. The Prussian belt buckle insignia was a roundel with the royal crown in the center with the motto "Gott mit uns" in the surround — God is with us — a phrase used by heraldry in Prussia dating back to 1701, and became the motto of the German Empire during the time of Frederick the Great.

The M.1909 Koppel was issued in natural, rough-out leather but after 1915 would have been ordered blackened. When the Koppel was worn with the tunic, it was held in place by four metal hooks which were attached to the tunic, two on the sides and two (made in the form of buttons) in the back.

Original M.1909 Koppel with a close up view of the keeper.

The M.1895 Koppelschloß (belt buckle) came in two version, one constructed of one-piece bright brass and one came bright brass with a separate nickel emblem soldered on.

Original M.1895 Koppelschloß in solid brass.

Original M.1895 Koppelschloß in brass and nickle.

The M.1916 Koppelschloß was changed to stamped steel that was zinc plated and matte painted Feldgrau.

Front and rear views of an original M.1916 one-piece stamped steel Koppelschloß with leather tab.

Period photo of three IR63 Soldaten with what appears to be M.1909 Koppel und M.1895 Koppelschloß.

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