(Suomen Leijonan ritarikunta). Instituted in 1942. In silver gilt with red and white enamels, marked with the National crown, with illegible hallmarks to either side on the obverse of the integral suspension ring, measuring 49.4 mm (w) x 53.3 mm (h) inclusive of its integral suspension ring, a single small scratch on the arm at 9 o'clock arm on the obverse, on its original full length neck ribbon, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, Finnish lion on the lid, maker marked "A. TILLANDER" on the white satin inside lid, raised platform with a black velvet recessed medal bed, light wear on the exterior, case also near extremely fine.
Footnote: The Order of the Lion of Finland is one of three official orders in Finland, along with the Order of the Cross of Liberty and the Order of the White Rose of Finland. The Order of the Lion of Finland was founded on September 11, 1942. It was introduced in an effort to preserve the prestige of the Order of the White Rose of Finland, which could have been diminished if granted too frequently, and to facilitate the awarding of honours for various types of merit. The Lion of Finland is awarded for civilian and military merit.