#19 • French Saint Helena Medal: High Grade Example

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

High bid $375.00

Status: Sold

French Saint Helena Medal: High Grade Example. French Saint Helena medal of superior quality. The medal was established in 1857 by emperor Napoleon III to recognize soldiers and their participation in the campaigns led by Emperor Napoleon. This medal exhibits a deep bronze toning with sections of obverse (Napoleon's bust, wreath and crown) as well as complete reverse gilded. Medal presents proper ribbon with attached Imperial Eagle device measuring 23mm x 20mm. Estimate: $200 - $250 Historical Background: The Saint Helena Medal (Médaille de Sainte-Hélène) is a campaign medal presented by the Second French Empire to French and foreign soldiers who served in the French armies during the French Revolutionary Wars and the Napoleonic Wars, specifically for campaigns between 1792 and 1815. It was established by an Imperial Decree on August 12, 1857, under Napoleon III, to honor the veterans of the First Empire. The medal came with an award certificate from the Grand Chancery of the Legion of Honour. The bronze medallion is surmounted by the Imperial Crown. The obverse features the effigy of Emperor Napoleon I, surrounded by the inscription “Napoleon I Empereur”. The reverse carries the inscription: “Campagnes de 1792 a 1815.” The original presentation box bore intricate ornamentation, including an embossed imperial eagle and the inscription "AUX COMPAGNONS DE GLOIRE DE NAPOLÉON I DÉCRET IMPÉRIAL DU 12 AOÛT 1857," meaning "TO NAPOLÉON I COMPANIONS IN GLORY IMPERIAL DECREE OF 12 AUGUST 1857."