Serbia – Miloš Obilić Medal for Bravery (Silver Grade, Huguenin Frères, WWI Issue)
The Miloš Obilić Medal for Bravery is one of Serbia’s highest military decorations, awarded for extraordinary courage and acts of valor in battle. Established in July 1913 by King Peter I, it was initially issued during the Second Balkan War but continued to be awarded throughout World War I and World War II.
This specific example is a Silver Grade medal, manufactured by Huguenin Frères of Le Locle, Switzerland (one of the most renowned medal makers of the time).
Specifications
Institution: Established in July 1913 by King Peter I of Serbia.
Class: Silver Grade (awarded to non-commissioned officers and enlisted soldiers).
Diameter: 35.92 mm.
Maker: Huguenin Frères, Le Locle, Switzerland (unmarked example).
Material: Silver.
Condition:
Well-preserved details (please refer to pictures for condition).
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
Bust of Miloš Obilić, depicted in knight’s armor, representing:
Bravery and chivalry.
Serbian medieval heritage.
Sacrifice for the nation.
Cyrillic inscription: "Милош Обилић" (Miloš Obilić), honoring the legendary hero.
Reverse (Back)
Inscription in Serbian Cyrillic: "За храброст" ("For Bravery") – clearly identifying it as a military valor decoration.
Minimalistic yet bold design, ensuring that the message of bravery remains prominent.
Historical Context
The Balkan Wars & World War I
The Miloš Obilić Medal for Bravery was originally created for the Second Balkan War (1913), during which Serbia fought Bulgaria.
During World War I (1914–1918), Serbia suffered immense losses, and this medal was extensively awarded to Serbian soldiers and Allied personnel for acts of exceptional courage.
The Gold Grade was awarded to officers, while the Silver Grade (this example) was given to non-commissioned officers and enlisted men.
Production & Variants
Early versions were manufactured in France (Arthus Bertrand, Paris) and Switzerland (Huguenin Frères, Le Locle).
After 1918, the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia) continued to produce these medals in Belgrade, Zagreb, and Varaždin.
Miloš Obilić – Serbia’s National Hero
Miloš Obilić is a legendary Serbian knight, credited with assassinating Ottoman Sultan Murad I at the Battle of Kosovo (1389).
His act of self-sacrifice against the invading Ottoman army made him one of Serbia’s most revered historical figures.
The medal bearing his name honors soldiers who embody the same spirit of heroism.
This Serbia – Miloš Obilić Medal for Bravery (Silver Grade, WWI Issue) is a historically significant and highly collectible military decoration.
Authentic WWI-era example from Huguenin Frères, Switzerland (unmarked but confirmed by design).
Awarded for battlefield bravery during the Second Balkan War & WWI.
Recognizes the legacy of Serbia’s national hero, Miloš Obilić.
Fine silver craftsmanship, minimal wear, and sharp details.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, engraving clarity, and overall presentation.