This is an original and untouched example of the United States World War I Victory Medal, complete with the “Defensive Sector” campaign clasp and mounted on its original rainbow-colored suspension ribbon. The medal retains strong detail with an even bronze patina and clear inscription. Notably, the medal lacks the original pinback fitting on the reverse of the suspension—often removed, lost, or detached over time—making this example ideal for display or restoration.

The U.S. Victory Medal was authorized by War Department General Orders No. 48 on April 9, 1919, to honor the service of all members of the United States military who served in active duty during World War I between April 6, 1917, and November 11, 1918. The 36mm bronze medallion was designed by sculptor James Earle Fraser and features a winged figure of Victory on the obverse, standing with shield and sword, representing both the hope of peace and the might of arms. The reverse displays the inscription THE GREAT WAR FOR CIVILIZATION surrounded by the names of the Allied nations, with a fasces and U.S. shield representing American authority and the global alliance against the Central Powers.

This example is fitted with the “Defensive Sector” clasp, issued to personnel who served in designated sectors of the Western Front where organized defensive operations took place, often under grueling trench warfare conditions. These sectors, though not part of a named offensive, were critical to the overall campaign, requiring steadfast endurance under artillery barrages, gas attacks, and night raids. Service in the Defensive Sector was officially recognized as no less vital than participation in major offensives.

The ribbon shows typical wear for its age, including fraying, discoloration, and light fading, but retains its original configuration and bar. Combined with the missing pin on the reverse, these details highlight the medal’s authenticity as a century-old relic of America’s first large-scale overseas war. A moving symbol of perseverance and duty, this Victory Medal represents the thousands of American troops who quietly held the line in some of the war’s harshest conditions.

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