Greece – Military Merit Cross 1916–1917 – WWI Bronze Medal – Signed L. Sue & A. Rivaud – 44mm
Medal Design:
Bronze cross within a laurel wreath, featuring a Greek phoenix with wings spread at the center.
Obverse inscriptions (in Greek):
“ΠΕΡΙ ΠΑΤΡΗΣ ΑΜΥΝ ΕΣΘΑΙ” – "To Defend the Fatherland"
Reverse inscription:
“ΕΛΛΑΣ 1916–1917” (Greece 1916–1917)
Artist signatures: L. Sue pinx / A. Rivaud sculp / Salonique 1917
Original ribbon: yellow with two vertical black stripes.
Dimensions:
Approx. 44.13 mm x 39.29 mm
Condition:
Excellent vintage condition with some natural patina.
Ribbon remains intact with minor age wear.
Inscriptions and design details are clearly legible.
Please see detailed photos for full condition assessment.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
This medal was issued by the Provisional Government of National Defence during World War I.
It recognized distinguished military service and loyalty during the politically divided period in Greece.
The engraving "Salonique 1917" refers to Thessaloniki, the base of the Venizelist government.
A rare and sought-after piece for collectors of Greek military or WWI-era medals.
Original Greek Military Merit Cross 1916–1917 with artist signature, awarded during a critical period in Greek WWI history.
Please refer to the pictures for condition.