French Medal Militaire, Imperial Guard Artillery & Document

Original era manufacture. Instituted in 1852 as an award for NCO's and enlisted men for acts of bravery before the enemy. This example is a post 1871 issue of silver with the replacement of Napoleon III's profile. No enamel damage, in excellent condition. The vellum document was presented to Sergeant Gravelleau in 1889 with senority ranking to 1872. The document has a tear in the upper left corner and appears to be glued in place to its original mounting board. Dimensions measure roughly 13x17 inches. The Imperial Garde served with the Army of the Rhine during the Franco-Prussian War, and was surrendered at Metz, and interred in Germany, in October of 1870.