#47 • French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - Third Republic

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

High bid $400.00

Status: Sold

French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - Third Republic. French Officier (Officer) medal Third Republic of the Legion of Honor in gold. This medal was awarded circa 1870-1940. Cross diameter 40mm. Medal exhibits crazing to white enamel at upper arm edge on reverse. Wreath exhibits no visible loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallions exhibit no chipping. Medal presents proper ribbon (slight wear). Estimate: $800-1000 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor Medal-Officier is a distinguished award within the National Order of the Legion of Honour, France's highest order of merit. Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the order recognizes outstanding military and civilian contributions to the nation. The rank of Officier (Officer) is one of the five degrees of increasing distinction within the Order, situated above Chevalier (Knight) and below Commandeur (Commander). To be promoted to the rank of Officier, a Chevalier must typically have a minimum of eight years in that preceding rank, signifying continued and elevated service. The specific medal from the Third Republic (1870-1940) era serves as a symbol of the enduring legacy of this period in French history. These medals typically feature a five-armed Maltese asterisk, enameled white, suspended from a red ribbon. The "Officier" rank is traditionally denoted by a rosette worn on the ribbon. Medals from this period are often sought after by collectors and historians for their historical significance and craftsmanship, sometimes being made of gold and bearing specific hallmarks of purity.