A rare and early award here. This is an original French Saint Helena medal (1857) in very good condition and complete with original ribbon. This is an exceptionally early French award, established in 1857 with the final medals being awarded in 1870.
 
The Saint Helena Medal (French: Médaille de Sainte-Hélène) was the first French campaign medal. It was established in 1857 by a decree of emperor Napoleon III to recognise participation in the campaigns led by emperor Napoleon I.
 
The Saint Helena Medal was awarded to all French and foreign soldiers, from the land armies or naval fleets, who served the Republic or the Empire between the years 1792 and 1815 inclusive.