Summary

Destruction of Rheims Cathedral medal, France, 1914.

Rheims Cathedral was shelled by German forces on 20 September 1914 and suffered significant damage due to the subsequent fires. France created medals such as this to distribute to those who contributed to the rebuilding of the Cathedral. They were also used as propaganda against Germany for their deliberate destruction of France's cultural heritage.

Obverse Description

Arch shaped medal with scene of burning Rheims Cathedral. In the apex above the flames is a figure representing Christ whose bowed head wears a wreath. His concealed face is buried in his hands as a single teardrop falls onto the burning building below.

Edge Description

Plain

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