France, Colonial. An Order Of The Black Star, Commander, by Arthus Bertrand

(Ordre de l'Étoile Noire) Commanders neck badge, featuring a silver gilt Maltese Cross with enamels, adorned by green enameled laurel suspension, hallmarked on elongated suspention loop with boars head denoting French silver quality as well as marker mark for Arthus Bertrand, measuring 54.82 mm (w) x 86.18 mm (h- inclusive of laterally pierced ball suspension, on silk ribbon, toned with contact, remains near very fine. Contained with in case of issue, green leather wrapped with wooden frame, strong catch and push button, fine.

Footnote: The order was created in 1889 by King Toffa of Dahomey, West Africa, and it became a French Colonial award in 1896 for 10 years service in West and Equatorial Africa by the military. Not issued after 1963.