Gabon, Republic. An Order of National Merit, Grand Officer Set by Bertrand, c.1975

(Ordre National du Merite). Instituted 1971. A Grand Officer Badge in silver gilt, presenting a shield shape with the Gabon coat of arms in the center with a crossed anchor and crossed palm trees at 12 o&rsquo;clock with the trunks coming down the side joining at 6 o&rsquo;clock, the reverse is inscribed ORDRE NATIONAL MERITE 1971 with the flag of Gabon, measures 31.5mm (w) x 44.6mm (h), weighs 27.7 grams, worn on the period correct ribbon with large rosette with a long dual prong pin at the top, enamels intact, light gilt wear, in very fine condition. Accompanied by the Star of the Order in silver, a 6-point star with two rays in each quadrant, the obverse central medallion features the same insignia as the badge, the reverse bears a single vertical pin flanked by dual stays, pin marked with makers mark of Arthus Bertrand, measures 68mm (w) x 78mm (h), weighs 91.1 grams, oxidation present to obverse, hinge and catch functional, in very fine condition.</p>
<p>Accompanied by a boutonniere with rosette.