France: Order of Liberation (Ordre De La Liberation). Companions breast badge

A later un-marked and un-attributed strike

The insignia including riband weights approx 36 grammes

Per specifications cited by the Museum of the Order of Liberation describes the insignia as a rectangular polished bronze escutcheon measuring 33 mm in height and 30 mm in width, bearing a double-edged sword 60 mm in height and 7 mm in width, extending beyond it above and below and overlain with a black Lorraine cross

Important: The Ordre De La Liberation - the second highest ranking award in the French order of precedence - was established by a decree issued by General De Gaulle of the 'Free French' at Brazzaville, Congo, on 16 November 1940. The very first insignia was awarded on 1941, and the last was presented in 1946. In total there were only 1061 x awards made, including 103 x to individual recipients, 18 x to regiments, vessels, squadrons and 6 x to cities. The contract to strike the medals was originally awarded to the London firm of 'John Pinches', on behalf of the Free French Government in Exile (the latter being based in London during the war years following the fall of France in June 1940). After the liberation of Paris on 25 August 1944, the Paris Mint obtained the remaining balance of London made insignia and when they were exhausted started to strike their own insignia, from late 1944. Paris Mint issues are always marked the Paris Mint trademark 'Cornucopia' and metal hallmarks 'Br' or 'Bronze'

The most evocative - and inspirational - of all French Orders, Decorations and Medals

Riband (soiled)

Condition: Minor enamel wear thus about VF

Code: 24458