France - Two Military Medals (Médaille Militaire) "Valeur et Discipline" 1870
Country: France
Established: 1852 by Emperor Napoleon III
Awarded for: Bravery and exceptional military service
Ribbon: Yellow with green edges
Obverse Details:
Features Marianne, the national symbol of the French Republic, wearing a laurel wreath.
Inscription: "RÉPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE 1870", indicating its issue for the Franco-Prussian War.
Surrounded by a silver laurel wreath.
Above the medallion, crossed weapons and flags, symbolizing military service.
Reverse Details:
Inscription: "VALEUR ET DISCIPLINE" (Valor and Discipline), representing the core values of the French military.
Blue enamel border surrounding the text.
Condition Notes:
The enamel is chipped, particularly around the blue border and inscriptions (please refer to the pictures).
The metallic elements show signs of oxidation and wear, consistent with the medal’s age.
Despite the damage, both medals retain their original details and patina, adding to their authenticity and collectible value.
Historical Context:
This 1870 version of the Médaille Militaire was awarded to French soldiers and officers for their courage during the Franco-Prussian War (1870–1871).
The Franco-Prussian War led to the fall of Napoleon III’s Second Empire and the unification of Germany under Prussia.
The Médaille Militaire remains one of France's highest military honors, second only to the Légion d'honneur.
These medals are historically significant and sought after by military collectors, even with the enamel wear.