Croix du Combattant ~ This is an original French decoration for World War One or World War Two (I believe this to be a WWI example). It is struck in bronze. Similar to the Croix de Guerre but without the swords. The obverse shows the head of the French Republic, facing left, with above and below "REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE." Surrounding the medallion and visible between the arms of the cross, is a laurel wreath. The reverse is similar, with a sword on the medallion, point downwards and with rays eminating from the pommel; around is the legend, "CROIX DU COMBATTANT." It has light wear and a nice patina and comes with about 3½ inches of original ribbon which is lightly faded and discolored. The ribbon has stitching in black thread where it was once apparently attached to something.

In 1926 a law was passed instituting a 'Combatants card', for all ex-servicemen who were entitled to assistance from the Office National du Combattant, and by a decree of 28 June 1930, the Croix du Combattant was created so their fellow citizens could know and respect those who had defended the country in her hour of need. Recipients who also qualified for a 'Combatants card' for World War II, are entitled to wear two bars on the ribbon, 1914-1918, and 1939-1945.