Luxembourg - Order of Merit of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Commander Class (Ordre de Mérite du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg, Commandeur)
The Order of Merit of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (Ordre de Mérite du Grand-Duché de Luxembourg) was established by Grand Duchess Charlotte on January 23, 1961, through Grand Ducal Decree. It was created to fill a gap in Luxembourg’s honor system, as previous orders were rarely awarded.
This order is bestowed upon both Luxembourgian citizens and foreigners in recognition of distinguished contributions to the Grand Duchy, including:
The arts, sciences, and literature.
Exceptional public or private service.
Long-term dedication to an employer or institution.
Awards are required to be returned upon the death of a recipient or promotion to a higher grade.
Specifications
Institution: Established January 23, 1961, by Grand Duchess Charlotte.
Period: Modern issue (post-1961).
Dimensions: 57.57 mm (height) x 52.08 mm (width).
Material: Silver-gilt with enamel details.
Ribbon:
Original neck ribbon included (adds to authenticity).
Ribbon cut on both sides (please refer to pictures for condition).
Design Features
Overall Structure
Elegant white-enamel Maltese cross, symbolizing honor and service.
Outlined with a blue enameled border, adding prestige and distinction.
Obverse (Front) Details
Central medallion features the national emblem of Luxembourg:
A red enameled crowned Lion of Luxembourg, symbolizing royal heritage and strength.
Encircled by a laurel wreath, representing glory and achievement.
Reverse (Back) Details
Central medallion displays two crossed, crowned letters "C" on a red enamel background, representing Grand Duchess Charlotte.
Suspension & Ribbon
Commander Class is worn around the neck, suspended by a neck ribbon.
Original ribbon included but cut on both sides (reduces wearability but maintains historical authenticity).
Historical Context
Creation & Purpose
Prior to 1961, Luxembourg had limited opportunities for conferring honors:
Order of the Golden Lion of Nassau – Reserved for sovereigns and high-ranking officials.
Order of Civil and Military Merit of Adolph of Nassau – Rarely awarded.
Order of the Oak Crown – Frequently conferred but insufficient for broader recognition.
The Order of Merit of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg was introduced to bridge this gap.
Hierarchy of the Order
The order is awarded in five classes:
Grand Cross (Grand-Croix) – Worn with a sash and Breast Star.
Grand Officer (Grand Officier) – Worn with a Breast Star (similar to Commander Class but with additional insignia).
Commander (Commandeur) – Worn on a neck ribbon (this piece).
Officer (Officier) – Worn on a chest ribbon with a rosette.
Knight (Chevalier) – Entry-level distinction, worn on a plain chest ribbon.
Eligibility & Recipients
Conferred upon Luxembourgian citizens and foreign nationals for:
Distinguished achievements in arts, science, literature, and civil service.
Long and meritorious service in employment.
Diplomatic and international contributions to Luxembourg.
This Luxembourg - Order of Merit of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, Commander Class is a historically significant and highly collectible decoration, representing Luxembourg’s recognition of exceptional service and contributions to the nation.
With intact enamel, a well-preserved finish, and official royal symbolism, this piece is a valuable addition to any collection of European orders and state decorations.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel quality, ribbon integrity, and overall presentation.