France, July Monarchy. An Order Of The Legion Of Honour, Grand Cross Star, C. 1840

Ordre national de la Légion d'honneur. Instituted in 1802. July Monarchy (1830-1848). A beautiful Grand Cross Star, composed of a silver Maltese cross with ball finials and scaled arms, with Gold French flags featuring white, red and blue enamels, the obverse medallion features a right facing portrait of King Henry IV in Gold, surrounded by a ring inscribed HONNEUR ET PATRIE., the reverse features a single pin with dual stays, hallmarked with a boars head on the pin and the catch denoting French manufacture post 1838, measures 77.75mm (w) x 76.25mm (h), weighs 52.0 grams, minor enamel contact, lovely old patina, a near mint decoration.

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.