Antique USEP medal gilded metal enamelled shield retro school sport

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique, retro-looking medal is a gilded metal piece associated with the USEP (Union Sportive de l’Enseignement du Premier degré), clearly identifiable by the embossed inscription "USEP" on the visible side. The medal features a stylized rectangular shape with rounded edges and a suspension hole at the top, suggesting it was worn on a ribbon or cord. The center is adorned with concentric patterns and an embossed laurel wreath, a traditional symbol of sporting achievement and excellence.

At the bottom, a small tricolored escutcheon stands out, with red and green enamel on a gilded background, adding a touch of color characteristic of 20th-century French sports distinctions. The reliefs are well-defined, and the gilding shows a pronounced patina, with visible areas of wear and oxidation, particularly on the edges and around the letters, testifying to the object's age and past use.

The visible side shows no additional text or year, but the typography and general style evoke models distributed in French schools between the 1960s and 1980s. The laurel wreath, often used for sports awards, surrounds the center of the medal, emphasizing its honorary character.

The gilded surface reveals a matte texture in places, linked to the wear of time. The colored escutcheon at the bottom of the medal displays slightly faded but still distinct colors. No clasp or attachment is visible on this side; only the top perforation indicates the possibility of hanging the medal.

The embossed details, particularly the laurel leaves and raised letters, give this medal an aesthetic typical of vintage French school sports distinctions. Traces of oxidation and the patina enhance the authenticity of the piece and its retro character.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Shows wear, marked patina, small traces of oxidation, and dulled enamel, visible on the photographed side.

Did you know? USEP, founded in 1939, is the primary school sports federation in France. Medals like this one were awarded during sports events organized in public schools to encourage sports participation and team spirit among children.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging and fast shipping. Professional seller specializing in antique and vintage items.

Keywords: school medal, USEP sports medal, vintage distinction, antique award, retro badge, primary school decoration, old french medal, sport award, gilded medal, enameled laurel, USEP badge, gilded metal medal