Legionne de Honore. Instituted May 19, 1802. Type V (1848-1851). In silver, a white enamelled Maltese cross with ball finials, with an oak and laurel leaf wreath in each quadrant, the obverse medallion in Gold presents the right facing portrait of Luis Napoleon surrounded by a heavily worn blue enamel ring inscribed BONAPARTE 1ER CONSUL 19 MAI, the reverse medallion presents two enamelled crossed French flags separating the inscription HONNEUR ET PATRIE, surrounded by a ring inscribed REPUBLIQUE FRANCE, measures 44.30mm (w) x 47.65mm (h – inclusive of integral ball), weighs 20.0 grams (including ribbon), worn on original ribbon, heavy damage to all areas of enamel, centerpiece slightly loose, dark patina, in fine condition.
Footnote: During the First Republic, the orders of Saint Michael, of Holy Spirit, and of Mount Carmel and Saint Lazarus of Jerusalem were rescinded. Since then, France was devoid of any system of awards or honors. On 19 May 1802, the Legion of Honour was established by a vote of the First Council who approved the formation of the Legion, 166 votes against 110. The Legion was the first European Order that was created as an Order of Merit, based on the principle of equality of birth, and which was open to individuals of all ranks and professions; only merit or bravery counted. During the Second Republic, Type V, the crosses had no surmounted crown suspension. Medallions may feature ether large or small facing-right portrait of Luis Napoleon on the obverse, together with crossed enamelled French flag on the reverse. In some version the crossed flags divided the reverse inscription, otherwise, the crossed flags are on top of the reverse inscription. The crosses depicted ball finials.