#57 • French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - Post WWII - Fourth / Fifth French Republic

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

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French Legion of Honor Medal - Officier - Post WWII - Fourth / Fifth French Republic. French Officier (Officer) medal Post WWII-Fourth/Fifth French Republic of the Legion of Honor. This medal was awarded circa 1946-present. Cross diameter 41mm. Medal exhibits some light crazing to white enamel with several chips with losses to tips of some arms. Wreath exhibits no visible loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallions exhibit no chipping. Medal presents proper ribbon (slight wear and fading). Estimate: $150 - $200 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor, formally the National Order of the Legion of Honour (Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur), is France's highest decoration, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802. It was created to reward the most deserving citizens for excellent civil or military conduct and service to the nation. The medal is one of the most famous in the world and has been presented on behalf of the Head of State for over two centuries. The order is divided into five degrees of increasing distinction: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand Officier (Grand Officer), and Grand-Croix (Grand Cross). The specific title in question, "French Legion of Honor Medal-Officier - Post WWII-Fourth/Fifth French Republic," refers to the second degree of the order, Officier. This degree signifies a higher level of distinction than the initial Knight rank. The "Post WWII" designation places the medal's issuance after World War II, specifically during the period of the Fourth (1946–1958) or Fifth (1958–present) French Republics. During this time, the principles of the order—Honour and Fatherland (Honneur et patrie)—continued to guide its purpose of recognizing exceptional merit in both military and civilian life.