(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 green and red enamelled 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, measures 42.11mm (w) x 62.43mm (h – inclusive of wreath integral), weighs 32.9 grams (including ribbon), boars head hallmark on obverse 6 o’clock ribbon tassels denoting .800 silver fineness and Paris manufacture post 1838, worn on original ribbon with rosette, enamels intact, overall very 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).