National Order of the Cedar, Grand Cordon Breast Star (French Mandate,1936-c.1943)

CATEGORY: Version

SKU: 01.LBN.0102.103.01.000

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Estimated market value:

N/A

Attributes

  • Country
    Lebanon
  • Composition
    Silver/Silver gilt/Enamelled
  • Inscription
    Obv: [French] REPVBLQVE LIBANAISE [Arabic] Lebanon
  • Size
    68mm
  • Version Remarks
    The French Mandate version differs from the post-independence version as it bears the French inscription REPVBLQVE LIBANAISE.

Physical Description and Item Details


A split five-pointed star constructed of silver or silvered gilt, the center bears an Arabic inscription that reads LEBANON, encompassed by a border with a French inscription reading REPUBLIQUE LIBANAISE, encompassed by a laurel wreath with berries, the points have a textured border, between each point is a cedar tree and rays, the reverse bears a vertical pinback and a prong on the left and right sides, measuring 68mm in diameter.

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 Breast Star is issued with a Sash Badge.

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

There are 2 versions of the Grand Cordon Breast Star 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 Breast Star issued post-independence omit the French obverse inscription and feature a Lebanese flag on the reverse. The date of institution of post-independence Breast Stars is uncertain, with sources ranging from 1943 to 1959.

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

There is limited information regarding this item.

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