Official French campaign medal, Caulier Del, Bérard Sc, 36.14 mm
Key Information:
• Country: France
• Award: Commemorative Medal of the Italian Campaign
• French name: Médaille commémorative de la campagne d’Italie
• Campaign period: 1943 – 1944
• Diameter: approx. 36.14 mm
• Material: Silvered bronze
• Suspension: Original ribbon and ring
• Markings: CAULIER DEL and BÉRARD SC on reverse
Medal Design:
Obverse:
• Inscription: “CORPS EXPEDITIONNAIRE FRANÇAIS D’ITALIE 1943–1944”
Translation: “French Expeditionary Corps in Italy 1943–1944”
• Central motif: Rooster standing before radiating sunburst
• Laurel wreath border
Reverse:
• Inscription: “REPUBLIQUE FRANÇAISE”
Translation: “French Republic”
• Central monogram: “CEF” (Corps Expéditionnaire Français)
• Small inscriptions below the star:
“CAULIER DEL” – designer (delineavit)
“BÉRARD SC” – engraver (sculpsit)
Ribbon:
• Red and white vertical stripes, correct for the Italian Campaign medal
Condition:
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
• Light wear consistent with age
• Details remain sharp and well defined
• Natural patina present
• Ribbon shows minor handling wear
Historical and Collectible Significance:
This medal was awarded to members of the French Expeditionary Corps who served in the Italian Campaign during World War II (1943–1944). French forces played a significant role in the Allied advance through Italy, particularly in the battles of Monte Cassino and the breakthrough of the Gustav Line.
The presence of official artist signatures confirms this as a regulation strike from the period. WWII French campaign medals are increasingly collectible, especially complete examples with original ribbon and clear detail.
Summary:
A well-preserved example of the French Commemorative Medal of the Italian Campaign 1943–1944, with correct ribbon, strong details, and official designer and engraver signatures. A solid addition to any WWII or French militaria collection.