#21 • French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - Bourbon Restoration / Second Restoration

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

High bid $250.00

Status: Sold

French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - Bourbon Restoration / Second Restoration. French Chevalier (Knight) medal Bourbon Restoration/Second Restoration of the Legion of Honor. This medal was only awarded circa 1814-1830. Cross diameter 37mm. Medal exhibits wear with some slight crazing to white enamel on arms (both obverse and reverse). Some arm points exhibit chipping with slight losses to points. Wreath exhibits moderate loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallion of obvers exhibits one small chip at lower portion. Medal presents proper ribbon (wear, soiling). Estimate: $500 - $800 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor Medal-Chevalier, specifically issued during the Bourbon Restoration and Second Restoration periods (1814–1824 and 1815–1830, respectively), is a significant historical iteration of France’s highest decoration. The Legion of Honor itself was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 to reward both military and civil merit. However, when the Bourbon monarchy was restored, they adapted the order, replacing the imperial crown on the badge with a king's crown to symbolize the change in government. The rank of Chevalier (Knight) is the lowest level of the order, awarded for distinguished service and excellent civil or military conduct. During this time, the order continued to serve as a key tool for the monarchy to recognize loyalty and merit following the tumultuous period of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era. The Second Restoration, beginning after Napoleon’s final defeat in 1815, solidified the modifications made to the Legion of Honor, aligning it more closely with the traditions of the restored French monarchy while maintaining its status as a modern order of merit. This specific medal design therefore represents a unique blend of Napoleonic legacy and Bourbon monarchical rule.