Monaco - Order of the Grimaldi, Commander (Ordre des Grimaldi, Commandeur)
The Order of the Grimaldi (Ordre des Grimaldi) is one of the most prestigious decorations of the Principality of Monaco, awarded for outstanding service to the Prince and for individuals who contribute to Monaco’s prestige on an international level.
It was founded on November 18, 1954, by Prince Rainier III, shortly after his accession in 1950 (as indicated by the "MCML" date on the reverse of the medal).
The Commander Class (Commandeur) is one of the higher distinctions in this rarely awarded chivalric order.
Specifications
Institution: Established on November 18, 1954, by Prince Rainier III.
Class: Commander (Commandeur) (third highest rank after Grand Cross and Grand Officer).
Dimensions: 63.58 mm (height) x 42.47 mm (width).
Material: Silver-gilt with white enamel.
Condition:
Very good, minor wear consistent with age (please refer to pictures for condition).
Neck ribbon cut at both ends (affects display, but not authenticity).
Ribbon: Originally white with a red stripe, worn around the neck (Commander Class).
Design Features
Overall Structure
Silver-gilt-edged white enamel cross pattée.
Four ball finials, a design feature of Monegasque chivalric decorations.
Swivel crown suspension, adding royal and sovereign symbolism.
Obverse (Front) Details
Central circular medallion featuring the Seal of Prince Rainier Grimaldi:
Rider on horseback, wielding a raised sword in his right hand.
Shield bearing the Arms of the Grimaldi family in his left hand.
Circumscription: "RAINIER GRIMALDI PRINCE DE MONACO".
Reverse (Back) Details
Central circular medallion inscribed:
"MCML" (= 1950, the year of Prince Rainier III’s accession).
Circumscription: "PRINCIPAUTE DE MONACO" (Principality of Monaco).
Silver hallmark on the reverse, confirming its precious metal composition.
Suspension & Ribbon
Swivel royal crown, allowing the medal to be worn on a neck ribbon (Commander Class).
Ribbon originally white with red stripe, symbolic of Monaco’s national colors.
Cut at both ends, affecting wearability but not historical or collectible value.
Historical Context & Significance
Foundation & Evolution
Originally created in 1954 to reward service to the Prince personally.
Modified in 1960 to also honor those who contribute to the international prestige of Monaco.
Ranks within the Order:
Grand Cross (Grand-Croix) – Highest rank, worn with a sash and breast star.
Grand Officer (Grand Officier) – Worn with a neck ribbon and breast star.
Commander (Commandeur – this piece) – Worn with a neck ribbon.
Officer (Officier) – Worn as a breast decoration with a rosette.
Knight (Chevalier) – Worn on a simple breast ribbon.
Recipients & Prestige
One of Monaco’s highest honors, often awarded to diplomats, cultural figures, and individuals who promote Monaco on the world stage.
Rare award, particularly in higher ranks such as Commander.
Limited international availability, as Monaco has a small national award system.
This Order of the Grimaldi, Commander Class is a highly prestigious and rare award, signifying exceptional contributions to Monaco’s cultural, diplomatic, and international prestige.
Despite the cut neck ribbon, the intricate enamel craftsmanship, royal symbolism, and historical significance make it an exceptional collector’s piece.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel integrity, and hallmarks.