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

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

Starting at $200.00

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 slight chipping with slight losses to points. Wreath exhibits moderate loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallions exhibit one small chip to both obverse and reverse medallion surrounds. Center gold medallion on obverse exhibits a push. Medal presents proper ribbon (newer replacement). Estimate: $400 - $700 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor Medal, Chevalier grade, from the period of the Bourbon Restoration (1814-1830), is a historical example of France's highest honor. The Order of the Legion of Honour was instituted in 1802 and is divided into five degrees of increasing distinction, with Chevalier (Knight) being the lowest of the three ranks (Chevalier, Officer, Commander) and preceding the two dignities (Grand Officer and Grand Cross). During the Restoration of the Bourbon Kings, the medal's design was altered from the Napoleonic style: a king's crown replaced the imperial crown, and three Bourbon fleur-de-lys replaced the eagle on the reverse of the order's insignia. This medal specifically dates to the Second Restoration period (1816-1830). The changes implemented during this era included renaming the Grand Cordons to Grand Crosses and Legionnaires to Knights. These decorations were typically smaller than the larger versions and are significant artifacts reflecting the political transition in France following Napoleon's reign, marking the shift back to monarchical rule under the Bourbon dynasty (Louis XVIII and Charles X) before the July Revolution.