FRANCE: Knight's Cross in the National Order of
Merit.
Silver and enameled, hallmarked and maker
marked (3 marks) on both sides of the
suspender.
The Order was instituted in Dec.1963, to reward
French citizens as well as foreign nationals, men
and women, for distinguished civil or military
achievements, though of a lesser level, that
wouldn't qualify for the award of the Legion of
Honor.
The appointment as a Knight requires at least 35
years of age and a minimum of 10 years of public
service (in practice 15 years).
For active duty commissioned officers the award
is being conferred after 15 years of meritorious
service.
The National Order of Merit is the highest merit
award of France, second only to the Order of the
National Legion of Honor.
FULL SIZE
5th French Republic - 1962
Item 100% original - ribbon original
Condition as on the photos: Enamel damage on
the tip of one ray (4 o'clock on the reverse side)
GREAT ADDITION TO EVERY COLLECTION!
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