Item number: M18
Year: AD 1832-2024 (present)
Material: Gold and Enamel
Size: 56 x 13 mm
Weight: 2.88 g
Provenance: Dixons Medals 2022
The Order of Leopold was established in AD 1832 by King Leopold I and stands as one of Belgium’s three national honors. It is the oldest and highest-ranking order, named after its founder, King Leopold I.
The order comprises three departments: military, maritime, and civil. Military decorations included crossed swords are placed beneath the crown, while the maritime department is signified by an anchor. Civil departments, however, do not feature swords or anchors. The order follows the French Legion of Honour with five classes: Grand Cordon, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer, and Knight.
This order is a breast decoration with a ribbon and a bow, indicating an officer class. Its design features a white enamel Maltese cross surrounded by a green enamel laurel and oak leaf wreath. The central blue and red enamel emblem depicts Belgium’s national emblem, the heraldic lion.
The obverse legend bears the French inscription “L’union fait la Force,” translating to “Unity makes Strength,” Belgium’s national motto coined by King Leopold I shortly after his accession to the throne. The reverse side bears a mirrored monogram “LR,” representing the founder, King Leopold I.
The first knight of the Order of Leopold was a wounded soldier named Ausseil, who lost a leg during the Siege of Antwerp. King Leopold I, encountering him on the front lines, appointed him as the first knight after Ausseil expressed his dedication to his country and comrades. This act symbolized the monarch’s appreciation for valor.
The featured order is a miniature version, likely privately crafted, a common practice for recipients who sought smaller or portable versions for everyday wear or as replacements. The image below displays a price list from early days, illustrating quotes from private artisans based on different sizes and materials.
