ORDRE du MÉRITE MILITAIRE. Knight's cross (39 mm) in enameled gold, with ball points and fluted ring with owl hallmark. Two-part center: on the obverse, sword on central red enamel and legend on blue enamel "PRO VIRTUTE BELLICA". On the reverse, laurel wreath on central red enamel and legend on blue enamel "LUD. XV.INST.1759". Restoration period, red ribbon with vintage bouffette. Minor damage to the white enamel on one branch, otherwise superb.