France, I Empire. An Early Order Of The Legion Of Honour, Knight, C.1806 Auction and some scuffing of the

and some scuffing of the edges

flanked by dates “1952-1902”

29mm x 39mm

very small enamel flakes on reverse

otherwise in hardly worn condition

France, I Empire. An Early Order Of The Legion Of Honour, Knight, C.1806 Auction and some scuffing of the(Ordre national de la Lgion d'honneur). Instituted in 1802. Type I (1804 1806). A very early knight, featuring a white enamelled five arm Maltese cross with green enamel wreath in each quadrant, the obverse medallion features a large Napoleon bust facing right, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed NAPOLEON EMP. DES FRANCAIS, the reverse medallion features a left facing eagle with outstretched wings encircled by a blue enamelled ring inscribed