#12 • French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - 1st Empire - 4th Model

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

High bid $375.00

Status: Sold

French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - 1st Empire. French Chevalier (Knight) medal 1st Empire (4th Model) of the Legion of Honor. This medal was only awarded circa 1808-9. Cross diameter 37mm. Medal exhibits wear with some crazing to white enamel on arms (both obverse and reverse). Some arm points exhibit chipping with loss (particularly on obverse). Wreath exhibits extensive loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallion of obverse and reverse exhibits some slight abrasions. Medal presents proper ribbon (wear, soiling and splitting). Estimate: $600 - $900 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor Medal-Chevalier from the First Empire refers to the lowest rank (Knight) of the National Order of the Legion of Honour, France's highest decoration. The order was established by Napoleon Bonaparte on May 19, 1802, with the intention of rewarding both military personnel and civilians for outstanding merits in the service of the nation. The First French Empire was founded on May 18, 1804, and the initial model of the Legion of Honour badge, lacking a crown, was in use during this period. The Chevalier is one of the five degrees of the Order (Knight, Officer, Commander, Grand Officer, and Grand Cross). During the First Empire, Napoleon himself always wore the Cross and Grand Eagle of the Legion of Honor, cementing its importance. The decoration is a five-armed Maltese cross hanging from an oak and laurel wreath, featuring the effigy of the Republic on the obverse and surrounded by the motto "Honneur et Patrie" (Honor and Fatherland) on the reverse. The medal from the First Empire is a significant historical piece, representing the order's early years under Napoleon's rule.