Offered here is an original Queen Elisabeth Medal (Médaille de la Reine Élisabeth / Elisabethmedaille), presented in its original maroon leatherette Fonson & Co. Bruxelles case. This elegant Belgian decoration was awarded during and after World War I for humanitarian service, particularly for caring for the wounded and displaced.
Dimensions: 45.85 mm (H) x 36 mm (W)
Material: Bronze
Suspension: Laurel-wreathed ring
Ribbon: Original gray central field with crimson edges
Case: Lined in silk and velvet, marked “Fonson & Cie, Bruxelles” inside the lid
Condition: Good; light patina on medal, some wear to case edges and ribbon; all elements intact.
Please refer to the photos for full visual condition.
Historical and Cultural Context
Instituted by royal decree in 1916, the Queen Elisabeth Medal honors civilians, nurses, and medical personnel—both Belgian and foreign—who provided exceptional service in caring for the war wounded and those affected by World War I. Named after Queen Elisabeth of Belgium, a figure deeply admired for her tireless wartime relief efforts, the medal became a powerful symbol of compassion and resilience.
It was awarded throughout and after the war years, often to Red Cross volunteers, doctors, and humanitarian workers who served on Belgian soil or in support of Belgian citizens.
Design Details
Obverse:
Portrait of Queen Elisabeth in relief, facing left
Inscription: “ÉLISABETH REINE DES BELGES” (Elisabeth, Queen of the Belgians)
Reverse:
Depiction of a seated woman (allegory of Charity) lighting a lamp
Inscription: “PRO PATRIA HONORE ET CARITATE – 1914 • 1916”
(For Country, Honor, and Charity – 1914 to 1916)
Suspension Ring: Laurel wreath motif, symbolizing honor and civic virtue.
Summary
Country: Belgium
Award: Queen Elisabeth Medal (WWI)
Period: 1916–Post-WWI
Maker: Fonson & Co., Brussels
Dimensions: 45.85 mm x 36 mm
Material: Bronze with original ribbon
Case: Original presentation case included
Condition: Good overall with natural aging
This is a beautiful and complete example of a distinguished WWI-era humanitarian award, perfect for collectors of WWI medals, Belgian orders, or female royal portrait medals.