(Dutch: Leopoldsorde, French: Ordre de Léopold). Instituted in 1832. Military Division. A superb highly-detailed ball-tipped Maltese Cross in silver, the arms exhibiting superior beaded patterns with delicate edges, the quadrants featuring clusters of five smooth silver rays, with centrepiece in fine Gold consisting of a superimposed heraldic Belgian Lion in Gold, with a finely enameled black background, surrounded by an exquisitely enameled red ring with motto ""L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE"" (Unity is Strength), in Gold lettering, the ring’s edges are embellished by ornamented Gold patterns, the centrepiece is encompassing with two crossed swords in Gold in the quadrants, the reverse with vertical pinback flanked by dual stays, hallmarked by period marker’s cartouche of C.J. Buls in Brussels, together with its maker’s mark stamped twice, measuring 83.97 mm (w) x 84.23 mm (h), light contact, with minor toned silver, an extraordinary piece in extremely fine condition. Accompanied by a hard-shelled brown case of presentation, with interior lid in white-cream silk, the medabel is recessed in brown cotton, measuring 109 mm (w) x 42 mm (h) x 110 mm (l), with functional push-button, strong wearing surface, fine.
Footnote: The Order of Leopold was established on July 11, 1832, after a month of contentious debates in Belgian Parliament. It was named to honour King Leopold I, and it has remained the highest-ranking decoration in Belgium since its creation. It is conferred upon Belgian citizens and foreigners in recognition of brave military service and other meritorious services rendered to the state.