Judaica / Zionism - Germany, Antisemitic Medal “Judas Iscariot”, circa 1915

Judaica / Zionism - Germany, Antisemitic Medal “Judas Iscariot”, circa 1915 A German antisemitic propaganda medal from around 1915, issued during World War I. The piece employs the biblical figure of Judas Iscariot as a symbol of treachery, combining traditional Christian antisemitism with contemporary political messaging. Obverse: Depicts Judas Iscariot whispering to Jesus, who is portrayed as a strong and noble figure, while Judas appears with exaggerated and stereotypically “Jewish” features — hooked nose, hunched posture, and sly expression. The inscription above reads: “JUDAS ISCHARIOTH.” Reverse: Bears the inscription: “DEM ERZVERRÆTER AUS DEM HAUSE SAVOYEN” - “To the arch-traitor from the House of Savoy.” Below appears a small cross. The text refers to Italy’s House of Savoy, condemned by Germany for betraying its alliance when Italy joined the Allies in 1915. The medal thus equates Judas’s betrayal of Christ with Italy’s betrayal of Germany, reinforcing antisemitic themes through wartime propaganda. Material: Dark iron Weight: 74.93 g Diameter: 59 mm