FRANCE. Liberation of Metz bronze Medal. Issued 1918 (45mm, 41.66 g, 12h). By E. Hannaux. EN SOUVENIR DE LA DELIVRANCE DE METZ, Marianne (personification of France) embracing civic personification of Metz / METZ / A / SES LIBERATEURS / 19 NOVEMBER 1918 in four lines; all within wreath. Edge: Plain. The Art of Devastation - (though cf. 6185.811.1). Choice Mint State. Charming yellow-bronze surfaces.
Following the Franco-Prussian War, the city of Metz was lost to the Germans. However, the roles reversed after the Treaty of Versailles, with Metz returning to French control, having been lost for nearly half a century. This area, in turn, was a key focal point during World War II, with the Third Reich re-entering Metz and shifting it once again back into German hands-many of the Reich's soldiers having themselves been born there when it was under German control.