Civic Decoration (1914-1918), I Class Cross

SKU: 02.BEL.0113.101.01

Estimated market value:

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Estimated market value:

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Attributes

country

Belgium
date of institution

May 18, 1915
remarks

The first version is very rare, and is prone to being reproduced. It is believed that authentic first version decorations were produced in Paris, but more research is necessary for confirmation. There may be additional manufacturers of the second version.

History

This Decoration was first instituted as the “Civic Decoration (1914-1915),” but it was later named the “Civic Decoration (1914-1918)” on December 12, 1918. It was awarded to civilians and military non-combatants in recognition of devotion and service to Belgium during the First World War.

There are two different versions of the decorations. The first (Civic Decoration 1914-1915) has an “LL” cypher on the medallion, a “1914-1915” clasp, and a ribbon without a centre gold stripe. The second version has an “A” cypher on the medallion, a “1914-1918” clasp, and a ribbon with a centre gold stripe for the I Class Cross and II Class Cross.

See also the Civic Decoration (BEL166) for the award established in 1867, and presently awarded for civil service and the Civic Decoration (1940-1945) (BEL120) for the award that recognises service in the Second World War.