#60 • Pair of French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - Post WWII- Fourth / Fifth French Republic

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

Starting at $100.00

Status: No sale

Pair of French Legion of Honor Medal - Chevalier - Post WWII- Fourth / Fifth French Republic. Pair of French Chevalier (Knight) medal Post WWII-Fourth/Fifth French Republic of the Legion of Honors including: These medals was awarded circa 1946-present. Medal #1) Cross diameter 41mm. Medal exhibits crazing with some delamination to white enamel of 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). Medal #2) Cross diameter 43mm. Medal exhibits no crazing to white enamel of 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: $200 - $250 Historical Background: The item is a Pair of French Legion of Honor Medals, specifically of the Chevalier (Knight) degree, dating from the Post-WWII era, corresponding to the Fourth or Fifth French Republic. The Legion of Honor is France's highest distinction, established to recognize outstanding service to the nation. The Chevalier is the lowest of the five ranks within the order, which increase in distinction to Officier, Commandeur, Grand Officier, and Grand-Croix. The physical decoration for the Legion of Honor, regardless of rank, typically features a white enamel cross surrounded by a green enamel wreath. The central disc often bears a bust of Napoleon in relief on the obverse, surrounded by an inscription on a blue enamel ring. The medal is usually suspended from a solid red silk ribbon. As these medals are from the post-WWII period of the Fourth or Fifth Republic, they represent a significant piece of French military and civil history, awarded for merit in a variety of fields.