Exceptional original condition as shown. This 1915 WWI Medallion by famous French artist "Pierre Roach"(Pierre Henry Ferdinand Masignon) 1855-1922, was created to mark the advent of French military aviation and its certain role in protecting the skies from foreign invaders. The overall condition of this medallion is excellent. It does not appear to have ever been cleaned, and the original patina looks fantastic. It's made from bronze is a larger medallion at approximately 105 cm. This medal is beyond rare. There is one currently housed in the Petit Palais Museum of fine Art in Paris. I'm not sure where that one came from, but one sold (could be the same) at Noonans Auction house in the UK in 1995 for $220 GBP ($343 USD) plus their 24% buyers fees & taxes. Adjusted for 1995 to present inflation that would be exactly $816.72 USD today (minus taxes/import duty/fees).  I also think this was a bit of a "sleeper" item as its scarcity has likely made it an unknown to the collectors market.  The text on the obverse reads LA VICTOIRE VOUS A DONNE SES AILES AVIONS DE NOS ARMEES which loosely translates to "Victory has gave its wings to the planes of our Armies."  Buy from us with confidence. We've been on eBay since 1998, are Veteran owned, and pride ourselves on 100% customer satisfaction. Our 25 years of positive feedback is proof we make your happiness our main priority. If for any reason you are unsatisfied with your purchase, we welcome your return and we'll even pay the shipping!  We ship each item we sell with great care and within one business day of your payment. Please see our other listings, and check back often as we typically list 30-50 high-end estate items each week with No Reserve! Each item over $500 SHIPS FOR FREE and comes with free insurance and signature confirmation.