France, Third Republic. A Miniature Order of the Legion of Honour, in Gold and Diamonds, by Chobillon, c.1880

(Ordre National de la Légion d'honneur). Instituted in 1802. (1870-1951 Issue). In Gold and silver, a French made cross, presenting a Maltese cross full of old cut diamonds with diamond ball finials, emerald laurel and oak leaf wreath segments in each quadrant, the obverse central medallion in Gold features a rightward facing effigy of Marianne surrounded in a blue enamel ring inscribed REPUBLIQUE FRANCAISE 1870, the reverse central medallion in Gold presents crossed flags surrounded in a blue enamel ring inscribed HONNEUR ET PATRIE, the badge is suspended from a green enamelled wreath, measures 12.3 mm (w) x 20.61.67 mm (h – inclusive of integral ball on wreath suspension), weighs 2.63 grams, marked on the ring AXC denoting French manufacturer Chobillon, and a gold eagle head hallmark denoting Gold fineness and Paris manufacture between 1870-1919, diamonds intact, in extremely fine condition.