#13 • French Legion of Honor Medal: Chevalier - 1st Empire 4th Model Variant

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

Starting at $500.00

Status: No sale

French Legion of Honor Medal: Chevalier - 1st Empire. French Chevalier (Knight) medal 1st Empire (4th Model variant) of the Legion of Honor. This medal was only awarded circa 1808-9. Cross diameter 41mm. Medal exhibits no crazing to white enamel on arms (both obverse and reverse).Wreath exhibits minimal loss of green enamel. Blue enamel on center medallions exhibit no chipping on obverse, but one small chip of enameling on reverse medallion surround. Medal presents proper ribbon ( wear and fading). Estimate: $1000 - $1400 Historical Background: The French Legion of Honor Medal, specifically the Chevalier rank during the First Empire (1804-1814), represents a foundational period for France's highest distinction. Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802 to reward both civil and military service, the award replaced the former orders of chivalry abolished during the French Revolution. The First Empire saw the medal, initially called the Légion d'Honneur, being officially conferred and becoming a key tool for Napoleon to ensure political loyalty and recognize merit across all fields of activity. The design of the medal itself evolved, with the earliest models established in 1804, coinciding with the founding of the First French Empire. During this era, the decoration was known as the Légion d'Honneur, and those receiving it at the lowest rank were initially called legionnaires, later renamed knights (Chevaliers) in 1816. The First Empire period cemented the award's prestige and universality, honoring those who demonstrated excellent civil or military conduct. Napoleon himself frequently wore the Cross and Grand Eagle of the Legion of Honour, underscoring its significance as one of the first modern orders of merit and an enduring symbol of "Honneur et patrie" ("Honour and Fatherland").