Description
RUSSIA
Alexander II (1855–1881). Pair of medals, the Eastern Campaign (Crimea) and the Battles of Alma and Inkerman, Prince Napoleon commanding the 3rd Division, by A. Barre, Special Strikes (SP) 1855, Paris.
Obverse: H.R.H. THE PRINCE – NAPOLEON. Head of Prince Napoleon facing left, with the signature ALBERT BARRE below.
Reverse: EASTERN CAMPAIGN. 1854. ALMA. INKERMAN. On a thunderbolt, a crowned eagle with outspread wings; below, ‘EXPOSITION UNIVERSELLE DE 1855’.
Divo 255; Silver and copper – 45.5 mm – 12 h
Top Pop: these are the only graded examples!
PCGS SP61 and SP65 (41026353 and 41428426).
With (hand-stamped) SILVER or COPPER hallmarks. With attractive patinas. Slight hairline scratches on the SILVER medal. Superb in mint condition.
Commemorating the victory of the French troops at Alma, followed by General Bosquet’s victory on the heights of Inkerman, defended by a small force of 8,000 British against 40,000 Russians. After several assaults and the hill changing hands several times, the French troops of Zouaves and African Chasseurs intervened in support of the British and drove out the Russians, who suffered heavy losses – around 15,000 men compared with only 900 French.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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