France, III Republic. A War Cross 1914-1918

(Croix de Guerre 1914-1918). Instituted in 1915. In bronze, dated "1914-1917" on the reverse, measuring 37.3 mm (w) x 46 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, nick on the edge of the arm at 9 o'clock, spotting, bronze palm on its original ribbon, very fine.

Footnote: The War Cross was instituted in April 1915, to commemorate mentions in dispatches. It was awarded to all ranks, officers included, and officers and men of allied forces who were mentioned in French dispatches. The cross was awarded once, subsequent mentions were recognized by additional ribbon devices: Brigade, Regimental or similar unit: a bronze star; Divisional despatch: a silver star; Army Corps despatch: a silver gilt star; and Army despatch: laurel branch (palm).