#38 • French Chinese Expedition Medals

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

High bid $475.00

Status: Sold

French Chinese Expedition Medals Pair of French expedition to China medals including: 1.) French Commemorative Medal of the 1860 China Expedition. This medal was awarded to recognize service in the Anglo-French expedition to China during the Second Opium War. Silver medal exhibits even toning/tarnish and is in very fine condition. Medal present correct ribbon. 2.) French 1901 China Expedition Commemorative Medal with "1900 CHINE 1901" bar. This medal was awarded to recognize service in China in 1900 and 1901 during the Boxer Rebellion. Medal exhibits even toning and is in very fine condition. Medal present correct ribbon. Estimate: $400 - $600 Historical Background: The French Chinese Expedition Medals, more commonly known as the Tonkin Expedition Medals (Médaille commémorative de l'expédition du Tonkin), were authorized in 1885 by the French government to recognize military personnel who participated in the campaigns in Tonkin and Annam (modern-day Vietnam) between 1883 and 1885. These campaigns were part of the Sino-French War, where France consolidated its colonial presence in Southeast Asia against the Qing dynasty of China, which claimed suzerainty over the region. The medal served as a commemorative award for service during this significant period of colonial expansion. The medal itself is a circular silver piece typically suspended from a ribbon. The design features a likeness of the Republic on the obverse, often inscribed with "République Française," while the reverse usually bears an inscription commemorating the expedition, sometimes detailing the specific battles or campaigns involved. The award was given to both French and indigenous troops who served under French command, symbolizing their participation in the establishment of the French Indochinese Union.