#26 • French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - July Monarchy

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

High bid $750.00

Status: Sold

French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - July Monarchy. French Officier (Officer) medal July Monarchy of the Legion of Honor in gold. This medal was only awarded circa 1830-1848. Cross diameter 42mm. Medal exhibits minimal wear and is in very fine condition. Medal presents proper ribbon (slight wear and soiling). Estimate: $1000 - $1400 Historical Background: The National Order of the Legion of Honour is France's highest decoration, founded by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 to reward both military and civilians for excellent service to the nation. The decoration underwent changes in design and ranking throughout various periods of French history, including the July Monarchy, which lasted from 1830 to 1848. During this time, the Legion of Honour remained a prominent award, signifying distinguished conduct. Specifically, the insignia of the Legion of Honour were drastically altered during the July Monarchy, with the cross now displaying tricolour flags. The rank of "Officier" is one of the five degrees of the order, ranking below Commander and above Knight. Issues from this period, such as the Officier medal, typically feature specific design elements and hallmarks characteristic of the 1830–1848 timeframe. By 1847, the order had approximately 47,000 members.