France – Lot of 2 Medals | Order of Commercial Merit & Order of Social Merit | Knight & Officer ClassThis lot includes two vintage French civil decorations from the mid-20th century. Both were awarded by the French government to recognize exceptional service in commerce and social welfare before being phased out with the establishment of the Ordre National du Mérite in 1963.
The Order of Commercial Merit (Ordre du Mérite Commercial) was created to honor individuals who made significant contributions to national and international trade.
The Order of Social Merit (Ordre du Mérite Social) was established to commend those involved in public service and social work, especially in the post-WWII era when rebuilding and welfare were top priorities.
Medal Design:
Left: Order of Commercial Merit – Knight (2nd Type)
Dimensions: Approx. 44.57 x 39.94 mm
Design: Bronze eight-pointed star with red, white, and blue enamel inlays; central medallion with a profile of Mercury (god of commerce) and maritime imagery; reverse with "Mérite Commercial" inscribed over a globe
Ribbon: Beige with golden edge stripes; original and aged
Right: Order of Social Merit – Officer Class (circa 1950)
Dimensions: Approx. 43.42 x 39.05 mm
Design: Blue-enamel six-pointed star with gold laurel wreath; central medallion with female allegorical figure and "Mérite Social" inscription on obverse; reverse marked "Ministère du Travail"
Ribbon: Bicolor orange and gray with a rosette (indicating Officer rank)
Summary:
Offered here is a genuine pair of mid-century French medals, representing distinct honors in commerce and social service. These pieces are ideal for collectors of French civil orders, vintage medals, or anyone with interest in the history of public recognition in postwar France.
Conditions:
The medals show light age wear and patina, consistent with their vintage nature
Enamel is largely intact; ribbons show signs of age
For condition, please refer to the pictures