The Franco Prussian War of 1870 to 71 was caused by the Northern German Territories ruled by the Prussian Empire wishing to extend its territories bringing a greater area into German unification! Napoleon 3rd ruling the 2nd French Empire was taken prisoner at the Battle of Sedan on 2nd September 1870 after a series of swift Prussian attacks & victories after the initial declaration of war on 16th July 1870! The French carried on, forming the 3rd Republic / Empire under the new Government of National Defence & carried on fighting until Paris fell on 28th January 1871. A revolutionary uprising called The Paris Commune seized control until May 1871 when the regular French Army won back Paris in a bloody battle. The Prussians had won overall & The Treaty of Frankfurt was signed on 10th May 1871 giving the states of Alsace & much of Lorraine were taken into the German & Prussian kingdom unifying the German territories & became the German territory of Alsace-Lorraine. 



This upset the balance of power in Europe & eventually through French determination to regain the Alsace & Lorraine territories, coupled with British apprehension regarding the balance of power in Europe were contributing factors leading to the first world war WW1 1914 to 1918!

This French 1870 to 71 Franco Prussian War medal was issued to all veterans & is known as "The Oublier Jamais" Medal which the scroll translated meaning NEVER FORGET. The bar 1870/71 added to the ribbon. The medal is made of silvered bronze & measures 1.25 inches x 1.5 inches & has a buttonhole suspension for attachment to a uniform. 

This is a guaranteed 100% original medal in used condition showing age of over 155 years old!