Medals from France from the Pre-WW1 Period
French Military Medals & Awards up to 1914.
On this page, you will find all military and campaign medals, orders of knighthood, awards, and decorations of France given before the Great War. This includes medals from the Merovingian, Carolingian periods, Capetian, Valois, and Bourbon periods, the French Empire, the Kingdom of France, and the French Republic. We have also included a few medals and decorations that are not confirmed, such as the Order of the Rooster and Dog – and we continue to look for more medals that have been lost in time.
Popular Pre-WW1 French Medals, Orders & Decorations
Explore the most renowned medals, orders, and decorations bestowed by the France before the onset of the First World War.
The Order of the Dragon of Annam
The Imperial Order of the Dragon of Annam (Ordre impérial du Dragon d’Annam) was created in 1886 in the ancient Vietnamese city of Huế.
The Order of the Star of Anjouan
The Ordre de l’Étoile d’Anjouan (or “Order of the Star of Anjouan”) was a French colonial order of knighthood founded in 1874.
The Order of the Black Star
The Order of the Black Star (Ordre de l’Étoile Noire) was an order of knighthood established by Toffa, future king of Dahomey, today Benin.
The Order of Saint Michael
The Order of Saint Michael (or Ordre de Saint-Michel) is a French dynastic order of chivalry founded by Louis XI of France on 1 August 1469.
The Legion of Honor
The Legion of Honor (or Ordre national de la Légion d’honneur in French) is the highest French order of merit for military and civil merits.
All Pre-WW1 French Medals
French medals from the pre-World War I era are exquisite examples of artistic craftsmanship. These medals often celebrated significant events, leaders, or cultural achievements of the time. Known for their intricate designs and attention to detail, pre-WWI French medals reflect the artistic and historical richness of the Belle Époque period
More French Medals
French medals extend beyond the pre-World War I era and encompass a vast array of historical and military distinctions. From World War I and World War II campaign medals to honors recognizing bravery and service, these medals are emblematic of France’s enduring commitment to valor and honor.
