Netherlands Medal 1946 Dutch Railway Strike Commemorative, Koninklijke Begeer EF-

Netherlands – Dutch Railway Strike Commemorative, 1946, Koninklijke Begeer

Obverse:
Winged railway wheel resting on a rail, halted by a brake shoe; behind a stylized Dutch flag. Around: “N.V. NEDERLANDSCHE SPOORWEGEN”.

Reverse:
Dutch lion with multi-line inscription: “IN DANKBARE HERINNERING AAN UW STEUN EN MEDEWERKING BIJ DE SPOORWEGSTAKING 17 SEPT. 1944 – 5 MEI 1945”.

Description:
Commemorative medal issued after World War II by the Nederlandse Spoorwegen to honor civilians who supported the railway strike of 1944–1945. This specific “thank you” variant was awarded to non-railway personnel who contributed to the success of the strike. Produced circa 1946 by Koninklijke Begeer.

The type is traditionally recorded as bronze, frequently encountered with a silvered (plated) surface. The present example corresponds in size and weight to the known issue.

Material: Silvered bronze (as issued)
Diameter: 50 mm
Weight: 53.55 g
Edge: Plain
Condition: About Very Fine; even wear with traces of original silvering and natural patina.

Historical Context:
The Dutch railway strike, starting 17 September 1944, was called by the government-in-exile to disrupt German logistics during the final phase of World War II. Approximately 30,000 railway workers went into hiding. This medal reflects post-war recognition not only of railway staff but also of civilians who supported the resistance effort.

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