Order of Social Merit, Commander
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.FRA.0121.101.01.000
Estimated market value:
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France, Republic. An Order of Social Merit, Commander c.1940
(Ordre du Mérite Social). Instituted in 1936. 1936-1963 issue. Of French manufacture, an enameled blue seven-pointed star with ball finials in silver gilt, presenting detailed laurel wreath in each quadrant, the obverse featuring a woman portrait circumscribed by the inscription MERITE SOCIAL (Social Merit), the reverse with an engraved inscription that stands MINISTERE DU TRAVAIL (Ministry of Labour), suspended by an oval laurel wreath also in silver gilt, hallmarked twice by French hallmark denoting silver purity of .800 between 1838 and 1962, with faint makers mark on elongated loop, measuring 62.18 mm (w) x 90.32 mm (h - inclusive of integral ball on the laurel wreath), presenting roasted silver and cracked enamels on the 12 o’clock arm, with some tips bent for wearing, accompanied by slightly discolored original neck ribbon, very good.
The Order of Social Merit was created by the decree of October 25, 1936. It replaced the Medal of Honour for Mutual Aid, the Medal of Honour of Social Providence, and the Medal of Honour for Welfare. It was later suppressed when the National Order of Merit was instituted in 1963.
The Order was awarded for exceptional service in institutions concerned with social legislation.
A Knight required at least 5 years of service. Knights could be promoted to Officer after 8 years, and Officers could be promoted to Commander after 5 years.
The obverse inscription translates to "Social Merit," and the reverse inscription translates to "Ministry of Labour."
There may be versions that vary in size, composition, and manufacturer.
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