#18 • French Insignia of Veterans of the Wars of the 1st Empire

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

High bid $500.00

Status: Sold

French Insignia of Veterans of the Wars of the 1st Empire. Collection of 3 early 19th century French insignia worn by veteran's of the Wars of the 1st Empire under Napoleon. Collection includes: 1.) French Imperial eagle medal with cutout below "1812". Medal measures 35mm x 30mm and exhibits ring suspension, lacks ribbon and exhibits some remnants of gilt. 2.) French Imperial eagle medal with solid plinth eagle is perched on displaying "1810" on obverse and "G.D'H." on reverse. Medal measures 35mm x 22mm and exhibits ring suspension and present white/red/white ribbon. and 3.) French Imperial eagle medal with eagle perched on banner that is engraved "1815". Medal measures 50mm x 42mm and exhibits crown and ring suspension and present dark blue ribbon with central yellow stripes and twist design. These medals were worn by veterans of Napoleon's Armies as pride of their service. All medals exhibit some wear. Estimate: $600 - $1000 Historical Background: The French Insignia of Veterans of the Wars of the 1st Empire, often referred to as the "Debris del la Grande Armee," is a historical commemorative piece honoring those who served during the period of the First French Empire under Napoleon. These veterans’ insignia were not official military awards but rather tokens of remembrance and fraternity among the former soldiers of the Grande Armée. The insignia typically takes the form of a silver or bronze eagle, sometimes set on a plinth or incorporated into a design resembling the Saint Helena medal, which was officially issued later to all living veterans of the Napoleonic Wars. The term "Debris del la Grande Armee" (meaning "remnants of the Grand Army") reflects the aging generation of soldiers who had survived the Napoleonic campaigns and wished to visibly mark their service and shared experience. These pieces are highly valued by collectors for their historical connection to the legendary Grande Armée and their distinctive, often hand-crafted nature. The existence of various forms, such as a silver eagle or a bronze piece in the shape of the St Helena medal, indicates that these were likely produced through private initiative rather than a single, standardized government issue, making each surviving example a unique piece of French military heritage.