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FRANCE, Third Republic. 1870-1940. AR Medal (50mm, 61.94 g). The Vandalism of Reims Cathedral. By Ch.-L. Picaud. Dated 1914. LA CATHEDRAL DE REIMS VICTIME DU VANDALISME 1914, view of the burning Reims Cathedrals; branch and coat-of-arms below / Blank. Edge: cornucopia and ARGENT. Toned, a few marls. EF.
From the Drewry Family Collection. Ex NASCA [27] (27 May 1980), lot 440A.
The city of Reims was briefly captured by German forces during their initial push in the summer of 1914, but was soon retaken by the French. Both during and after the occupation, the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims was used as a Red Cross hospital, primarily housing wounded German prisoners of war. The Germans, however, claimed that it was being used as a center for French military reconnaissance and communications. On 19 September 1914, German artillery targeted the church, igniting the wood scaffolding in place for ongoing repairs. The French were aghast and seized on the propaganda opportunity, painting the Germans as an uncivilized barbarian horde intent on destruction.
Closing Date and Time: 16 July 2025 at 14:29:20 ET.
All winning bids are subject to a 20% buyer’s fee.
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