Ethiopian Campaign Medal and Africa Orientale Medal with Combat Device
Key Information:
• Country: Italy
• Period: 1935–1941
• Material: Bronze
• 1. Ethiopian Campaign Medal – diameter approx.: 32.32 mm
• 2. Africa Orientale Medal – diameter approx.: 34.13 mm
Medal Design:
Ethiopian Campaign Medal 1935–1936
Obverse: Portrait of King Vittorio Emanuele III facing right.
Reverse inscription in Italian: “CAMPAGNE D’AFRICA”
Translation: “African Campaigns”
This medal commemorates Italian participation in the Second Italo-Ethiopian War (1935–1936).
Africa Orientale Medal
Obverse inscription in Italian: “VITT • EM • III • RE • D’ITALIA • IMP • DI • ETIOPIA”
Translation: “Vittorio Emanuele III, King of Italy, Emperor of Ethiopia”
Reverse inscription in Italian: “AFRICA ORIENTALE” “MOLTI NEMICI MOLTO ONORE”
Translation: “East Africa” “Many enemies, much honor”
The blue and black ribbon features a combat device consisting of a small sword with laurel branches and cross, indicating participation in active military operations.
Condition:
• Both medals show attractive age patina
• Honest surface wear consistent with period
• Ribbons in good condition for age
• Combat device firmly attached
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
These two medals represent Italy’s military campaigns in East Africa during the 1935–1941 period.
The Ethiopian Campaign Medal commemorates the 1935–1936 war that resulted in the proclamation of the Italian Empire.
The Africa Orientale medal relates to subsequent operations in Italian East Africa and bears the well-known motto “Molti nemici molto onore.” The presence of the combat device increases historical and collector interest.
Italian Africa campaign decorations remain popular among collectors of European militaria and interwar to WWII period awards.
Summary:
A desirable lot of two original Italian Africa campaign medals, including a combat-designated Africa Orientale example. A strong addition to any Italian or WWII militaria collection.