1846 Leopold I - Foundation of the Order of Leopold - By L. Jehotte

Leopold I – King of the Belgians, Foundation of the Order of Leopold, 1846, by L. Jehotte

Obverse:
Left-facing bust of Leopold I – King of the Belgians. Legend: “LEOPOLD I ROI DES BELGES”. Signed below truncation: “L. JEHOTTE F. 1846”.

Reverse:
Star of the Order of Leopold decorated with oak and laurel branches. In the central medallion, the Belgian lion beneath a crown and surrounded by the national motto “L’UNION FAIT LA FORCE” (“Unity Makes Strength”). Around: “ORDRE DE LÉOPOLD” and “LOI DU 11 JUILLET 1832”, referring to the law establishing Belgium’s highest national order of chivalry.

Historical Context:
The Order of Leopold was created by law on 11 July 1832, shortly after Belgian independence, and became the kingdom’s highest distinction for civil and military merit. This impressive bronze medal was produced in 1846 and commemorates the foundation of the order under King Leopold I. The design emphasizes the insignia and symbolism of the order, including the Belgian lion and the national motto. Research indicates that this medal is a scarce early commemorative issue connected with the Order of Leopold and is seldom encountered in auction records.

Specifications:

Country: Belgium
Date: 1846
Metal: Bronze
Diameter: Approximately 50 mm
Engraver: L. Jehotte

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