#7 • Belgian Order of Leopold: Lot of Four

Part of British & World Medals (live auction by Bannerman Auctions)

High bid $140.00

Status: Sold

Belgian Order of Leopold: Lot of Four. Group of 4 Belgian Order of Leopold medals including; 1.) Officer class of the Order of Leopold (civil) with rosette on ribbon. Small enamel flake and some light crazing. 2.) Officer class of the Order of Leopold (civil) with rosette on ribbon. Sun fading to ribbon. 3.) Knight class of the Order of Leopold (civil). Small enamel flake on reverse and some light crazing. 4.) Knight class of the Order of Leopold (military). Some light crazing. Ribbon presents crossed swords indicating wartime award. All circa 20th century. Estimate: $200 - $400 Historical Background: The Order of Leopold is Belgium's oldest and highest order of chivalry, established on July 11, 1832, by King Leopold I. It is an Order of Merit with five degrees: Grand Cordon, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer, and Knight. The Order is awarded to Belgian and foreign citizens for meritorious service to the Belgian state or society. Its motto is "L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE - EENDRACHT MAAKT MACHT" (Union makes strength or Unity Makes Strength). The decoration is awarded by Royal decree and remains active today, with His Majesty King Philippe serving as the Grand Master. The Order of Leopold can be awarded in civil, military, or maritime divisions. The military division, distinguished by two crossed swords under the crown, is awarded to military personnel. The maritime division, rarely awarded and marked by two crossed anchors, is reserved for personnel of the merchant navy. The first knight inducted into the Order was French sapper Valentin Ausseil in 1832. The Grand Officer rank was created in 1838.