Ancient, Celtic, British and World Coins, Tokens and Historical Medals

WORLD ART MEDALS France, French Jewish award, bronze, by Josine Souweine, woman standing feeding three children, heureux celui qui a pitie des afflices above, 1942-1944 below, reverse les enfants juifs across, star of David above, engraved “Mme May J. avec reconnaissance” below, 60mm. Extremely fine (£80-100)

Sadly we have no details of this interesting and historically significant award nor knowledge of the doubtless gallant actions which led to to its presentation to Mme May. The dates clearly imply that the medal relates to occupied France or the Vichy state rather than, for example, work with a relief agency after the defeat of Germany. The first example the cataloguer has seen, probably of some rarity, and well worth further research.