Legion d'honneur - 3rd type

Officer grade

1808-1811

Gold, enamel, silk

To recognize the talent and achievements of men, initially in the military, Napoleon instigated the Legion of Honour in 1802. It was composed of members ranked from Legionnaire (silver), officer (gold), commander and grand officers and into cohorts. This medal is for the officer’s grade and is the third model of the Legion of Honour, issued from 1808 to 1811. The fourth version was similar but 'balls' were added to the points of the star to stop the catching and tearing of the uniform.