Set of three French private commemorative medals for the Battle of Verdun, 1916
Key Information:
• Country: France
• Conflict: World War I
• Battle: Verdun, 1916
• Type: Private commemorative medals
• Quantity: Set of three medals
• Material: Bronze
• Ribbons: Original ribbons present
• Diameter: approx. 27–30 mm each
Medal Design:
Medal 1 – “EN AVANT JUSQU’AU BOUT”
Obverse: French soldier advancing with rifle. Inscription: “EN AVANT JUSQU’AU BOUT” (Forward to the End) and “VERDUN 1916.”
Reverse: Marianne, symbol of the French Republic, with inscription including “AUX PRÉSENTS” (To Those Present). Designer name “REVILLON” visible on the side.
Medal 2 – “ON NE PASSE PAS”
Obverse: Female allegorical figure (Marianne) holding a sword. Inscription: “ON NE PASSE PAS” (They Shall Not Pass).
Reverse: Fortress of Verdun with inscription “VERDUN” and date “21 FÉVRIER 1916.”
Medal 3 – “AUX GLORIEUX DÉFENSEURS DE VERDUN”
Obverse: Helmeted French soldier with inscription “VERDUN 1916.”
Reverse: Inscription: “AUX GLORIEUX DÉFENSEURS DE VERDUN” (To the Glorious Defenders of Verdun). Ribbon includes metal clasp “VERDUN.”
Condition:
• Natural bronze patina throughout
• Age-related wear and minor ribbon fraying visible
• No major damage observed
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Battle of Verdun (1916) was one of the longest and most intense battles of World War I. These private commemorative medals were issued to honor participants and defenders of Verdun. Each medal reflects a different patriotic theme and carries strong symbolic value tied to French resistance and national memory. Verdun medals are highly collectible among WWI and French militaria collectors.
Summary:
A complete and attractive set of three Verdun commemorative medals from World War I, representing iconic slogans and imagery associated with the 1916 battle. A strong historical group ideal for collectors of French WWI decorations.