France, Iv Republic. An Order Of The Legion Of Honour, Iii Class Commander, C.1955

(Ordre de la Légion d'Honneur, Commandant). Instituted in 1802. Multi-piece construction, in silver with blue, white, red and green enamels, hallmarked with a crab and maker marked "AB & Co" (Arthus Bertrand & Compagnie) on the loop, measuring 61.3 mm (w) x 93 mm (h) inclusive of its wreath and integral ring suspension, small chip in the white enamels on the arm at 5 o'clock on the obverse along with scuffing on its reverse, crazing evident in the blue enamels on the obverse centrepiece ring and in the red enamels on the flag at the left on the reverse centerpiece, on its original full-length neck ribbon, better than very fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, reddish-brown pebbled leather-look exterior, inscribed "R.F." (République Française) in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inside lid in white satin, padded and maker marked "ARTHUS BERTRAND PARIS", the base with an insert covered in black felt, measuring 88.5 mm (w) x 155 mm (h) x 39.5 mm (d), exhibiting extensive wear on the exterior, the hinge loose versus the base, light soiling present on the white satin lining, case near fine.

Footnote: The Legion of Honour (AKA National Order of the Legion of Honour) is the highest French order of merit for military and civil merits, established in 1802 by Napoléon Bonaparte. The order's motto is "Honneur et Patrie" ("Honour and Fatherland") and its seat is the Palais de la Légion d'Honneur next to the Musée d'Orsay, on the left bank of the River Seine in Paris. The order is divided into five degrees of increasing distinction: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand Officier (Grand Officer) and Grand-Croix (Grand Cross).