History

The Italy Campaign Medal was created by Napoleon III on August 11, 1859 and was awarded to all those who participated the Italian Campaign of 1859.

The Medal has two types. Type I Medals were created by the decree of August 11, 1859 and feature a portrait without a crown. These Medals were hurriedly made by private manufacturers for celebrations held on August 14, 15, 1859. Type II Medals were created by the decree of August 23, 1859 and feature a portrait with a laurel crown. Approximately 334000 Type II Medals were officially produced by the Monnaie de Paris.

The obverse inscription of both Types translates to “Napoleon III Emperor,” and the reverse inscription translates to “Italian Campaign 1859, Montebello, Palestro, Turbigo, Magenta, Marignan, Solferino.”

There are many versions of the Type I Medal. The following variables may be encountered: manufacturer; composition; size; surmounting crown.