Summary
Verdun Commemorative Medal designed by Revillon in France, circa 1920.
This unofficial medal was "created on 20 November 1916 by the Municipal Council of Verdun to commemorate the heroism of its defenders. Originally intended to be awarded to those who served on the Verdun front between 21 February 1916 and 2 November 1916, the medal was, in fact, awarded to those who served anywhere on the Argonne and St Mihiel sectors between 31 July 1914 and 11 November 1918. The original, and most commonly found, version was by Vernier but since supplies of this medal were inadequate, others created Verdun medals and at least seven versions of varying rarity are known".
Obverse Description
Bust of a female wearing a crown, facing left, holding a sword in her right hand and spear in her left hand. The inscription reads "VERDUN / ON NE PASSE PAS" (Verdun They Shall Not Pass). The artist's name "REVILLON" appears in smaller text at the right after the word "VERDUN".
Reverse Description
Bearded soldier wearing a helmet holding a rifle. The inscription reads "EN AVANT / JUSQU'AU BOUT" (Forward Until the End). The artist's name "REVILLON" appears in smaller text at the right after the word "AVANT".
More Information
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Collecting Areas
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Acquisition Information
Transfer from National Gallery of Victoria (NGV), 15 Mar 1976
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Date Issued
circa 1920 AD
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Issued By
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Manufacturer
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Inscriptions
Obverse: "VERDUN / ON NE PASSE PAS" (Verdun They Shall Not Pass). Reverse: "EN AVANT / JUSQU'AU BOUT" (Forward Until the End). Both sides include the artist's name "REVILLON".
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Material
Silver
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Classification
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Category
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Discipline
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Type of item
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Overall Dimensions
20 mm (Width), 30 mm (Height)
Medal only.
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Shape
Round with loop and ribbon
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References
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Keywords