#32 • French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - Second Empire

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

Starting at $150.00

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French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - Second Empire. French Chevalier (Knight) medal Second Republic of the Legion of Honor. This medal was awarded circa 1852-1870. Cross diameter 36mm. Medal exhibits wear with some chipping and slight loss to white enamel points on arms (both obverse and reverse). Wreath exhibits slight loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallions is unchipped. Medal presents proper ribbon (newer replacement). Estimate: $300 - $400 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor Medal is the highest decoration in France, established to recognize outstanding services to the French Republic, regardless of social origin or wealth. The Order is structured into five degrees of increasing distinction: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand Officier (Grand Officer), and Grand Croix (Grand Cross). The Chevalier is the lowest of these ranks, recognizing the initial distinguished service of the recipient. The medal itself is typically a five-armed Maltese asterisk, often enameled, suspended from a red silk ribbon. The specific medal referenced, the "French Legion of Honor Medal-Chevalier - Second Empire," pertains to the period of the Second French Empire (1852–1870). While the core design and structure of the Legion of Honor remained consistent, details such as the depiction on the central medallion of the cross often reflected the current regime, in this case, the effigy or symbols associated with Emperor Napoleon III. These medals from the Second Empire are historical artifacts valued for their connection to a specific era in French history and their representation of recognized service during that time.