(Legion d’Honneur). Instituted May 2, 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte. Type VIII. (1870-1951 Issue). A silver gilt five point white enamel Maltese Cross with ball finials, with segments of a laurel and oak leaf wreath in each quadrant, the obverse central medallion features the silver gilt right facing head of Marianne, the symbol of the revolution, in a blue enamel surround inscribed REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE 1870 (French Republic 1870), the reverse medallion features the crossed French flags in a blue enamel surround inscribed HONNEUR ET PATRIE (Honour and Fatherland), the badge is suspended from an oak and laurel wreath with a decorative integral ring, measures 59.68mm (w) x 86.95mm (h – inclusive of wreath and integral ring), weighs 44.9 grams (excluding ribbon), a boar’s head hallmark on the obverse 6 o’clock ribbon tassels and on suspension bar denoting .800 silver guarantee and Paris manufacture post 1838, makers mark of Arthus Bertrand on suspension loop and partial mark on the integral suspension bar, worn on a period full length neck ribbon, enamel crack on 5 o’clock reverse arm otherwise near extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The Legion of Honour was proposed by Napoleon Bonaparte to the First Council, to create a reward to commend civilians and soldiers who had served the Republic, promoted republican principles and French interests. The Legion would ensure political loyalty and unity among the new French Republic. The first decorations were conferred in the anniversary of the Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1804. They were awarded to French military personnel, wounded, and civilians who had served to the Republic cause during the Revolution period (1789-1798).