History

The Medal of Honour for Labour was established on May 15, 1948. It replaced the Medal of Honour from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Medal of Honour from the Ministry of Labour and Social Providence.

It is awarded for long and faithful service to the same employer. From 1948 to 1957 the Gold Medal was awarded for 60 years of service, the Gilt “Rappel” Medal for 50 years of service, the Gilt Medal for 40 years of service, and the Silver Medal for 30 years of service. From 1957 to 1974 the Large Gold Medal was awarded for 55 years of service, the Gold Medal for 45 years of years, the Gilt Medal for 35 years of service, and the Silver Medal for 25 years of service. From 1974 to 1984 the Large Gold Medal was awarded for 48 years of service, the Gold Medal for 43 years of service, the Gilt Medal for 35 years of service, and the Silver Medal for 25 years of service. From 1984-2000 the Large Gold Medal was awarded for 43 years of service, the Gold Medal for 38 years of service, the Gilt Medal for 30 years of service, and the Silver Medal for 20 years of service. Since 2000 the Large Gold Medal has been awarded for 40 years of service, the Gold Medal for 35 years of service, the Gilt Medal for 30 years of service, and the Silver Medal for 20 years of service.

The Gold Medal is worn with a gold laurel branch clasp. The Large Gold Medal is worn with a gold laurel wreath clasp. Both the Gold Medal and Large Gold Medal have oak branch suspension rings.

There are two versions of the Medal that vary in inscription. The first version has an obverse inscription that translates to “French Republic,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “Honour, Labour, Ministry of Labour and Social Security.” The second version has an obverse inscription that translates to “French Republic,” and a reverse inscription that translates to “Honour, Labour, Ministry of Labour.” There may be additional versions which differ in size, composition, or manufacturer.