The Légion d'honneur, or Legion of Honor, is France's highest decoration. Its prestige makes authentic medals highly sought after by collectors. However, the market for these medals also attracts forgeries and unscrupulous sellers. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of buying a Legion of Honor medal, ensuring you make an informed and safe purchase.
What to Know Before Buying a Legion of Honor Medal
Before you even begin your search, understanding the nuances of these medals is crucial. The Legion of Honor isn't just one medal; there are different grades, each with distinct designs and ribbons. Knowing these differences helps you spot fakes and assess value.
Different Grades of the Legion of Honor
The Legion of Honor has five grades, each signifying a different level of achievement:
- Chevalier (Knight): The entry-level award, often the most commonly seen in circulation.
- Officier (Officer): A higher level of achievement, signifying greater contributions.
- Commandeur (Commander): A significant honor, awarded for exceptional service.
- Grand Officier (Grand Officer): A very rare and prestigious award.
- Grand Croix (Grand Cross): The highest grade, extremely rare and only awarded to the most distinguished individuals.
Each grade has a unique design, size, and ribbon, making identification a critical aspect of authentication.
How to Spot a Fake Legion of Honor Medal
Unfortunately, the value of genuine Legion of Honor medals makes them a target for counterfeiters. Several red flags can indicate a forgery:
- Poor craftsmanship: Examine the medal closely. Authentic medals exhibit fine detail and precise craftsmanship. Crude etching, uneven surfaces, or blurry details are strong indicators of a fake.
- Incorrect markings: The medal should bear specific markings and hallmarks indicating the manufacturer and the year of production. Research these markings to verify their authenticity. Inconsistencies or missing hallmarks are suspicious.
- Unusual materials: Authentic medals are made from specific metals; the type of metal should match the grade of the medal. Unusual materials or a significantly lighter weight compared to similar medals raises concerns.
- Suspiciously low price: Genuine Legion of Honor medals, especially those of higher grades, command significant prices. If the price is unusually low, it's likely a fake.
- Lack of provenance: A reputable seller will provide documentation about the medal's history, including information about the recipient and how it came into their possession. The absence of such documentation is a major warning sign.
Where to Buy a Legion of Honor Medal Safely
Buying from reputable sources is paramount. Consider the following options:
- Reputable auction houses: Auction houses specializing in militaria and historical artifacts often offer authentic medals, with detailed descriptions and verification processes.
- Established dealers: Seek dealers with a strong reputation and a proven track record of selling authentic items. Verify their credentials and check online reviews.
- Collectors' fairs and exhibitions: These events offer opportunities to examine medals in person and speak with knowledgeable dealers.
Is it Legal to Sell a Legion of Honor Medal?
The legality of selling a Legion of Honor medal depends largely on the circumstances and the country where the sale occurs. While selling the medal itself is generally legal, some restrictions may apply depending on the recipient's circumstances and the laws of the relevant jurisdiction. It's advisable to consult with legal counsel before selling any highly valuable historical artifact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much is a Legion of Honor medal worth?
The value varies significantly based on the grade of the medal, its condition, the recipient's prominence, and the presence of supporting documentation. Chevalier medals might range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, while higher grades can fetch tens of thousands or more.
How can I verify the authenticity of a Legion of Honor medal?
Engage an experienced numismatist or military historian specializing in medals. They can assess the medal's features, markings, and materials to determine its authenticity.
Are there any resources to help me identify Legion of Honor medals?
Online forums dedicated to military history and medal collecting can be helpful resources. However, always cross-reference information with several sources.
By following this guide and prioritizing careful research, you can increase your chances of acquiring an authentic Legion of Honor medal and becoming a responsible collector. Remember, due diligence is crucial to avoid fraudulent sales.
