Belgium – Lot of Two WWI Medals (1914–1918)
Condition: Age-related wear and natural patina. See detailed photos for condition.
1. Belgian Inter-Allied Victory Medal 1914–1918 (French: Médaille de la Victoire 1914–1918 / Dutch: Zegemedaille 1914–1918)
Diameter: 36.32 mm
Established: 15 July 1919, Royal Decree
Eligibility: Belgian Armed Forces who served during WWI
Extended to: African campaigns, merchant navy, fishing fleet
Total Awarded: Approx. 350,000
Designer: Paul Du Bois (noted Belgian sculptor)
Obverse: Winged Victory holding a sword and laurel wreath
Reverse: Coats of arms of Allied nations with inscription:
"La Grande Guerre pour la Civilisation / De Groote Oorlog tot de Beschaving"
Ribbon: Rainbow, symbolizing Allied unity
Precedence: Worn after the Yser Medal or Yser Cross
2. Belgian Fire Cross Medal 1914–1918 (French: Croix du Feu / Dutch: Vuurkruis)
Dimensions: 56.38 mm x 41.88 mm
Established: 6 February 1934, Royal Decree
Eligibility: WWI veterans holding the "Fire Card" (Carte du Feu / Vuurkaart)
Awarded For: Direct exposure to enemy fire at the front
Note: Not awarded posthumously, increasing rarity
Obverse:
Latin motto: SALUS PATRIAE SUPREMA LEX ("The nation's salvation is the supreme law")
Royal crown and olive branches
Dates: 1914–1918
Artist: Signed by P. Rombaut
Reverse:
Helmet, bayonet, artillery scene, and rising sun — symbolizing hope, resilience, and victory
💡 Ideal for collectors of Belgian WWI militaria, combat decorations, and rare European campaign medals.