#34 • French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - Second Empire

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

High bid $800.00

Status: Sold

French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - Second Empire. French Officier (Officer) medal Second Republic of the Legion of Honor in gold. This medal was awarded circa 1852-1870. Cross diameter 36mm. Medal exhibits wear with crazing to white enamel on arms (both obverse and reverse) and chips with losses to one arm on obverse and one arm on reverse.. Wreath exhibits minimal loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallions is unchipped. Medal presents proper ribbon (wear and soiling). Estimate: $1000 - $1200 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor Medal-Officier from the Second Empire is a distinguished insignia of the highest French order of merit, the National Order of the Legion of Honor, which was instituted in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte. During the Second Empire (1852-1870), the medal typically featured an eight-pointed star in white enamel, surrounded by a green-enamelled laurel wreath. The obverse center often displayed the profile of Napoleon III, fitting for the period, with the inscription "Napoleon Emp." Medals from this era were frequently crafted in gold and adorned with white, blue, and green enamels, reflecting the high status of the award. The rank of Officier (Officer) is the second of the five degrees within the order, ranking above Chevalier (Knight) and below Commandeur (Commander). It is awarded for distinguished service and is an elevation from the rank of Chevalier. This specific medal represents a historical artifact from the reign of Emperor Napoleon III, embodying the French tradition of recognizing outstanding military or civil service with a highly coveted and finely crafted decoration.