A French Legion D'honneur; Officer, In Gold, First Empire Type Iii Cross (1806-1808)

This example is First Empire Type III Badge (1806-1808) with replaced Second Restoration medallions c.1815-1819. Badge in 18kt. Gold and enamels, hallmarked on ring, 38.5mm (x57.5mm including crown suspension), just tiny blue enamel chipping, otherwise in extremely fine condition, with lovely old period ribbon; an excellent example of Napoleonic Officer's badge in Gold. ÀFootnote: There are many hybrid crosses in this Order, which may have crowns, crosses and medallions of different types. Most hybrids were created in the 19th century, when many official changes were made to the design of the Order as a result of changes of rulers and/or Governments. As a general rule, the recipient who would be still on active duty in the Army would replace the centers of the existing badge to reflect loyalty to new regime/ruler.

In this case, an Officer serving under Napoleon continued his Army service under Louis XVIII.