(M.1895 Koppel und Koppelschloß)—The military cartridge belt with a buckle bearing the proper inscription for the state you portray: Prussia: „Gott Mit Uns“ (God is With Us) was a long-standing symbol of the Prussian Army. Other states wore different mottos.
The Koppel shall be made of leather and have an adjustment tongue. Black belts and belts with the smooth side out are allowed. Buckles will be of feldgrau painted steel and must be of the WWI Prussian “Gott Mit Uns” pattern. Brass and two piece buckles are also acceptable.
„Gott Mit Uns“ (God is With Us) had been a long standing symbol of the Prussian army since Fredrick the Great. Because of this, the slogan “Gott mit Uns” was placed on the belt buckle.
Members of IR23 should endeavor to get an original belt buckle. This is one of the only pieces of the uniform that you can still use that is original. Just think, you can use a piece that might have seen action on the western front! They are still readily available, and relatively inexpensive, if you know where to look. Keep in mind, if you buy an original, you will always have an original.
The Koppel was worn by itself or with varying amounts of equipment hung on it. 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. This was sufficient for light duty; however, the increased weight of a combat load of ammunition required the use of the breadbag strap (Brotbeutel Riemen) which was looped around the neck and hooked to the cartridge pouches.
The Koppel was issued in varying sizes. Minor size adjustments to the belt (for when wearing the greatcoat, etc.) could be made by moving the buckle along a strap sewn to the inside of the belt.
The Koppel shall be made of leather, colored black or brown on the outside, natural leather inside, with the rough side out, and have an adjustment tongue. Buckles may be made of brass or feldgrau painted steel and must be of the proper WWI pattern for your state.