WWI humanitarian service medal; original ribbon and Fonson & Cie case included
Key Information:
Country: Belgium
Award: Queen Elisabeth Medal (Médaille de la Reine Élisabeth)
Years of Issue: 1914–1916
Designer: Signed “RV” (René Veyrat)
Case: Original Fonson & Cie Bruxelles case
Ribbon: Original wartime ribbon
Dimensions: approx. 45.85 × 35.99 mm
Medal Design: For all condition details, please refer to the pictures. Dimensions are approximate.
Condition:
Medal: Shows typical age-related patina and handling wear consistent with a WWI-era award. Light discoloration and surface marks present on both sides.
Ribbon: Original, with age toning and soiling.
Case: Original early case by Fonson & Cie. Interior shows notable wear, fabric thinning, and visible abrasions. The case is in weak overall condition, with exterior scuffing and edge wear, but remains intact and functional.
Please refer to the pictures.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Queen Elisabeth Medal was issued during the First World War to honor individuals—both Belgian and foreign—who provided humanitarian, medical, or relief assistance to Belgium during the early war years (1914–1916).
The obverse bears the portrait of Queen Elisabeth with ELISABETH REINE DES BELGES, while the reverse depicts a seated nurse and the Latin motto PRO PATRIA HONORE ET CARITATE (“For Country, Honour, and Charity”). Signed RV for designer René Veyrat.
Original examples accompanied by their period Fonson & Cie case are significantly more desirable and increasingly scarce.
Summary:
A WWI-period Queen Elisabeth Medal 1914–1916 complete with its original ribbon and original Fonson & Cie case. The medal remains in collectible condition; the case shows substantial wear but is original to the piece. A solid example for collectors of Belgian awards, WWI humanitarian medals, or medical service decorations.