Belgium, Kingdom. An Order of Leopold in Gold, IV Class Officer, by Jules Heremens, c.1918

(Dutch: Leopoldsorde, French: Ordre de Léopold). Instituted in 1851. In Gold with red, white, black and green enamels, weighing 16.7 grams, cypher of Leopold I (LL RR I) on the reverse centrepiece, measuring 39.5 mm (w) x 65 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, intact enamels, large rosette on its original ribbon, extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, cypher of King Albert I (reign: 1909-1934) in gold-coloured ink on the lid, crowned maker mark of "J. HEREMANS SCHAERBEEK" (Jules Heremens of Schaerbeek) and offset impression of the rosette on the white stain inside lid, black felt recessed medal bed, wear evident in the fabric overlying the hinged area, light scuffing on the bottom, case very fine.

Footnote: The Order of Leopold is one of the three current Belgian national honourary orders of knighthood. It is the highest order of Belgium and is named in honour of King Leopold I. It consists of a military, a maritime and a civilian division. The maritime division is only awarded to personnel of the merchant navy, and the military division to military personnel. The decoration was established on July 11, 1832 and is awarded for extreme bravery in combat or for meritorious service of immense benefit to the Belgian nation. The Order of Leopold is awarded by Royal order and is issued in five classes: Grand Cordon, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight.