French - Military Medal

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Médaille Militaire de Troisième Rébulique (1870-1940). Instituted January 22, 1852, the Military Medal was awarded for meritorious service and acts of bravery in action against an enemy force. It is constructed out of a two piece die stamped nickel/brass base that has been silver washed and gold gilded and contains blue enamel work. The obverse features a centrally placed left facing bust of Marianne in gold, surrounded by “Republic Francaise 1870” on a blue background and a laurel leaf and berry wreath that is tied together at the top and bottom with crossed ribbon. The bottom of the wreath’s ribbon is marked “1” and is dual cornucopia hallmarked. The reverse reads: “Valeur et Discipline” on a pebbled gold round backing that is surrounded by a thin round blue border and that same wreath. To the top is a soldered-on hollow pipe loop that is attached with a pin and two other pip loops soldered to the back of the golden trophy of arms. To the top is a round wire loop and ring which holds 4 inches of yellow and green rayon ribbon. The award measures 1 1/16 inches wide by 1 7/8 inches tall.