#64 • Grouping of French Campaign and Commemorative Medals - 20th Century

Part of British & World Medals (live auction by Bannerman Auctions)

High bid $100.00

Status: Sold

Grouping of French Campaign and Commemorative Medals - 20th Century Grouping of French 20th century campaign and commemorative medals including; 1.) Indochina Campaign Commemorative Medal mounted with a Aux Défenseurs de la Patrie Medal. 2.) Indochina Campaign Commemorative Medal with double straight pin back. 3.) Combatant Volunteer medal with "Engagé Volontaire" bar. 4.) Colonial Medal with "Extreme Orient” bar. 5.) Combatant Volunteer medal with "Engagé Volontaire" bar and double straight pin back. 6.) Colonial Medal with "Algerie" and "Forces Franicaises En Allemagne" bars. 7.) National Defence Medal with "Legion Etrangere" bar. 8.) Déportation et Internment medal. 9.) Patriotic Commemorative medal. 10.) Pair of late 20th century Commemorative Military medals from the Society Nationale d'Entraide with double straight pin back. 11.) Commemorative medal for the campaign for the Rhein and Danube 1944-5. 12.) Franco-British Association 1940-44 enamel medal. 13.) French table medal (3.75") awarded to General Dominique in 1986. Medals are in very good to very fine condition with some exhibiting residual adhesive to reverse as evidence of previous display mounting. Estimate: $200-300 Historical Background: French campaign and commemorative medals from the 20th century represent a diverse collection of awards issued by the French government to recognize participation in military operations or significant historical events. These awards span major conflicts like the First and Second World Wars, as well as various colonial and expeditionary campaigns. Campaign medals specifically honor service in military operations outside of metropolitan France, such as the Dardanelles, Orient, and Indochina campaigns. Commemorative medals, on the other hand, mark service during broader periods or specific events, with examples including the 1914–1918 Commemorative War Medal and the 1939–1945 Commemorative War Medal. This grouping covers a period of intense global and national activity for France, reflecting the nation's military history and its enduring tradition of recognizing the service and sacrifice of its citizens. Awards like the Cross of War (1939-1945, TOE) and the Cross for Military Valor signify distinction in combat, while medals recognizing voluntary service in Free France or a liberated France highlight contributions to resistance and national restoration. Collectively, these 20th-century medals offer a tangible record of France's military engagements and the diverse ways in which individuals contributed to national defense and international missions.