Imperial Russia Medal – “For the Capture of Paris, March 19, 1814” – Brass Replica A4

Imperial Russia Medal – “For the Capture of Paris, March 19, 1814” – Brass Replica A4

• Type: Replica medal (not an original 19th-century issue)

• Country: Imperial Russia

• Year Represented: 1814 (established August 18/30, 1814 under Alexander I)

• Material: Brass

• Diameter: approx. 29 mm (1.14 in)

• Weight: approx. 12 g (0.42 oz)

• Condition: New reproduction

Historical Background

The Medal “For the Capture of Paris, March 19, 1814” was established by Emperor Alexander I in honor of the Russian troops who entered Paris on March 19 (31), 1814, during the final campaign against Napoleon.

• Obverse: Bust of Alexander I in a laurel wreath, beneath the radiant “All-Seeing Eye.”

• Reverse: Inscription within a laurel wreath: “FOR – CAPTURE – PARIS – MARCH 19 – 1814.”

Although the medal was intended to reward all participants, Alexander I withheld distribution after the restoration of the Bourbon dynasty, considering it undiplomatic. Only in 1826, under Nicholas I, were medals issued, with over 160,000 distributed by 1832.

The original medals were produced in silver, with different sizes for infantry and cavalry, and were worn on the combined St. Andrew–St. George ribbon (blue with orange and black stripes).

Significance

This brass replica is a faithful reproduction of the original commemorative medal, making it an excellent collectible for those interested in:

• The Napoleonic Wars

• Russian military history

• The 1812 Patriotic War & 1814 Campaigns

⚠️ Note: This is a modern brass replica intended for collectors, reenactors, and educational display. It is not an original 1814 or 1826-issued medal and carries no monetary or official value.