#37 • French Dahomey Expedition Medal

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

High bid $120.00

Status: Sold

French Dahomey Expedition Commemorative Medal The Dahomey Expedition commemorative medal (French: Médaille commémorative de l'Expédition du Dahomey) was a French campaign commemorative medal. It was bestowed to the participants of the First Franco-Dahomean War (1890) and of the Second Franco-Dahomean War (1892–1894) in order to commemorate their feats of arms. Silver medal exhibits even toning with some tarnish and is in fine condition. Medal is accompanied by correct ribbon (worn with some soiling/splitting). Estimate: $150 - $250 Historical Background: The Dahomey Expedition Commemorative Medal (or French Dahomey Expedition Commemorative Medal) was instituted by the Law of November 24, 1892, to recognize the officers, sailors, and soldiers of France who participated in the colonial wars in Dahomey. Specifically, it was awarded to those who took part in the First Franco-Dahomean War (1890) and the Second Franco-Dahomean War (1892–1894). The medal served to commemorate their feats of arms during these campaigns, which ultimately led to the defeat of King Behanzin and the establishment of a French protectorate, absorbing the former kingdom into the French colony of Dahomey. The medal is a campaign medal and was first awarded on May 11, 1893, with the final award date being February 5, 1894. Eligibility for the award included the crews of several vessels of the French Navy involved in the campaign. The Dahomey Expedition Commemorative Medal is a significant piece of French military history, symbolizing the establishment of French colonial rule in the region, which is now the nation of Benin.