The Haitian Military Medal (Army Issue) (La Médaille Militaire – Armée d’Haïti) was instituted in 1918 to recognize distinguished military service in the Haitian Army. This award was given to officers, non-commissioned officers, and enlisted personnel for acts of bravery, exemplary service, and military merit.
This specific piece:
Period: Circa 1920
Material: Bronze gilt
Dimensions: 43.41 mm (height, including suspension) x 40.02 mm (width)
Condition: Scattered gilt wear (please refer to pictures for details).
Ribbon: Original Army ribbon with pinback.
Design Features
Obverse (Front) Details
Central crest of Haiti, featuring:
A palm tree, symbolizing freedom and sovereignty.
Cannons, flags, and weaponry, representing Haiti’s military strength.
A Phrygian cap (Liberty Cap) atop the palm, a symbol of republican ideals and the Haitian Revolution.
Encircling inscription: "MÉDAILLE MILITAIRE" (Military Medal).
Reverse (Back) Details
Inscription: "ARMÉE D’HAÏTI" (Haitian Army).
Suspension & Ribbon
Suspended from an integral bronze loop.
Original Army ribbon with pinback, confirming its authenticity and period use.
Historical Context
Institution & Purpose
Established in 1918, during the U.S. occupation of Haiti (1915–1934).
Recognized military service, dedication, and acts of valor within the Haitian Army.
Likely inspired by the French Military Medal (Médaille Militaire), given Haiti’s historical ties to France.
Haitian Military & International Influence
The Haitian Army played a key role in national defense and internal security.
Many recipients of this medal were involved in defending national sovereignty and maintaining order during political upheavals.
Changes Over Time
The design and criteria for this medal evolved, with later versions awarded under different political regimes.
This 1920s issue remains one of the earliest and most historically significant variants.
This Haitian Military Medal (Army Issue, c.1920) is a historically significant and rare military decoration, awarded for service and valor in the Haitian Army. Despite minor gilt wear, its intact original ribbon, authentic early design, and rich historical context make it a valuable addition to any collection of Haitian or Latin American military medals.
For further authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to evaluate condition, enamel integrity, and ribbon quality.