History

The Medal of Merit for Native Military and Civil Guards (Indochina) was created on July 21, 1890 by Governor General Piquet. It was only awarded for ten months. On May 1, 1891 the Medal was permanently discontinued by instructions received directly from France.

The Medal was awarded to native troops or native civil guards in the protectorates of Annam and Tonkin for exceptional acts of courage, or for severe wounds incurred during service.

The inscription in characters on the obverse is inscribed in French on the reverse. This inscription translates to “Protectorates of Annam and Tonkin, Valour and Discipline.” The ribbon is embroidered with characters for “Ðông-Khánh,” although they are upside down.

The Medals were manufactured in France. There may be additional versions that differ in composition due to multiple private manufacturers.