History

The National Order of the Cedar was initially instituted by Government Decree on December 31, 1936; but was maintained following Lebanon's independence in 1943. The Order is conferred in 5 Classes, plus a Collar, as Lebanon's second highest civil and military honour, behind the Order of Merit Extraordinary and Grand Cordon Class. The Order is often presented by the President of the Republic of Lebanon in recognition of exceptional service to Lebanon, acts of courage, demonstrations of great devotion and moral value, and for public service. Initial appointments to the Order are always made to the Knight Class. Foreigners and ladies may also be eligible for the award.

The Order may also be presented posthumously.

The Grand Cordon is conferred upon commanders-in-chief who have been a member of the Grand Officer Class for a minimum of 2 years. The Grand Cordon Decoration is worn from a sash and is issued with a Breast Star.

Members of the Grand Cordon are entitled to an annual monetary award of approximately LL1000.

There are 2 versions of the Grand Cordon Decoration which vary by inscription. Early versions feature a French inscription and an Arabic inscription which translates to "Lebanon" on the obverse, as well as a French flag superimposed on the reverse. Versions of the Decoration issued post-independence omit the French obverse inscription and feature a Lebanese flag on the reverse. The date of institution of post-independence Decorations is uncertain, with sources ranging from 1943 to 1959.

There may be additional versions of the Decoration which vary by design, but more research is needed.

There is limited information regarding this item.