French Croix de Guerre 1914-1915 Medal with Silver Star and Gold Star

French Croix de Guerre 1914–1915 medal with Silver Star and Gold Star, an original and highly collectable example of one of France’s most prestigious military decorations for gallantry during the First World War.

Instituted on 2 April 1915, the Croix de Guerre 1914–1918 was awarded to members of the French Armed Forces and Allied servicemen who were mentioned in dispatches for acts of courage in the face of the enemy. This early wartime example bears the scarce 1914–1915 reverse date, representing one of the first issues of the decoration before later wartime revisions changed the reverse inscription to 1914–1916, 1914–1917, and finally 1914–1918.

The medal is formed as a bronze cross pattée with crossed swords between each arm, symbolising combat service. The obverse features the effigy of the French Republic, while the reverse is dated 1914–1915. It is suspended from the distinctive green ribbon with narrow red vertical stripes and is fitted with both a silver star and a gold (gilt) star, denoting multiple mentions in dispatches.

The silver star signifies a citation at Divisional level, while the gold (gilt) star denotes a citation at Corps level. The presence of multiple citation devices indicates that the recipient was recognised on more than one occasion for distinguished conduct or gallantry, making such examples significantly more desirable than medals without ribbon devices.

The Croix de Guerre was awarded not only to French soldiers but also to thousands of British, Commonwealth, Belgian, American, and other Allied servicemen who distinguished themselves while serving alongside French forces. It became one of the most respected foreign gallantry awards presented during the First World War, recognising bravery in major campaigns including the Battles of the Marne, Verdun, the Somme, Arras, and Passchendaele.

Early-dated Croix de Guerre medals retaining their original citation devices are particularly sought after by collectors due to their scarcity, historical significance, and direct association with repeated acts of gallantry on the Western Front.

Condition

Good overall original condition, with crisp detailing and an attractive age-related bronze patina. The original ribbon retains its silver star and gold (gilt) star citation devices. Some wear, minor surface marks, and gentle ribbon ageing are consistent with the medal’s age and service, as well as some dents around the centre on the reverse; however, no significant damage or repairs are evident.