Dunkirk Medal (Médaille Dunkerque 1940) – Unofficial French Commemorative Award for Operation Dynamo
A desirable original example of the Dunkirk Medal, officially titled the Médaille Dunkerque 1940, created to honour those who took part in the defence and evacuation of Dunkirk during May–June 1940. This striking bronze commemorative award was instituted in 1960 by the town of Dunkirk and issued through the Association nationale des anciens combattants de Flandres-Dunkerque 1940. Initially reserved for French veterans, it was later extended—after 1970—to all Allied personnel who took part in Operation Dynamo, including members of the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Merchant Navy, and the heroic crews of the Little Ships.
Struck in bronze and measuring approximately 44mm x 36mm, the obverse features the shield and arms of Dunkirk—a fish beneath a lion passant—set against an anchor and laurel wreath, with crossed swords above symbolising the fierce defence of the port. The reverse shows a burning oil lamp above the inscription DUNKERQUE 1940, representing vigilance, sacrifice, and the endurance of those who held the line long enough for more than 330,000 Allied troops to be evacuated.
The medal retains its correct ribbon, a distinctive pattern consisting of a broad chrome-yellow central stripe flanked by red, yellow and black stripes—colours symbolising both Flanders and the burning oil installations that lit the evacuation beaches. The suspension includes the characteristic crossed swords device. As intended, the medal is unnamed, though each original award was issued with a personalised certificate.
Although unofficial and therefore worn on the right breast by British recipients, the Dunkirk Medal has become an historically significant and highly collectable piece, issued to thousands of men who endured bombardment, destruction, and constant threat along the Dunkirk perimeter. It stands today as one of the most recognisable commemoratives linked to the legendary evacuation of 1940.
A fine example of this iconic medal, ideal for collectors of French awards, Operation Dynamo material, or Battle of France memorabilia.
AJMS Medals