France, I Empire. An Order Of The Legion Of Honour, Officer, C.1810

(Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur). Instituted in 1802. Type I (1808-1813). In Gold, a beautiful Legion of honour with five with enamelled Maltese arms, the green enamelled laurel and oak leaf wreath in each quadrant are crisp, the central medallion features a right facing profile of Napoleon, surrounded on a blue enamelled ring inscribed NAPOLEON EMP. DES FRANCOIS, the reverse medallion features a left facing eagle with outstretched wings surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed HONNEUR ET PATRIE, the badge is surmounted by a richly detailed crown with red and green enamel details, marked on the striated ring with a rooster head denoting Paris manufacture from 1809-1819, measures 39.16mm (w) x 57.80mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned surmounting crown), weighs 20.2 grams, worn on a replacement ribbon with rosette, small chip evident on reverse of 12 o’clock arm, otherwise, minor enamel wear to the tips of several arms, loss of red enamel to the obverse of the crown band, an award rarely found in such 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. In Type II, the 1806 versions have surmounted crown with hinged or welded affixed suspension. In 1808, Napoleon approved a surmounted crown attached by two points on the top arm. Also, there are known “Large Head” models feature facing-right portrait of Napoleon; as well as “Small Head” models feature a small facing-right portrait of Napoleon on the obverse; Only the Grand Eagle features ball finials.