France, Republic. A China Expedition Medal, by G. Lemaitre, c. 1900

Instituted April 15 1902. Constructed of silver, the obverse presents a female portrait facing left, the reverse presents an anchor with crossed cannons in front of a building, the medal is marked GEORGE LEMATIRE along the 5 o’clock edge of the obverse, and the rim is marked ARGENT, the medal is suspended from a unique dragon head suspension and worn on correct ribbon with 1900 CHINE 1901 clasp, measures 30mm (w) x 49.6mm (h – inclusive of dragon head suspension), weighs 21.1 grams (including ribbon and clasp), light mark on obverse at 11 o’clock, wear on reverse, lovely patina, in overall better than very fine condition.

Footnote: It was awarded to the Officers, Soldiers, and Sailors who took part in the French Expedition in China from 1900-1901. It was also awarded to French citizens who defended legations in Pekin. More than 34500 Medals were awarded.