Colonial Order, Hallmarked, Interwar Period, 52 g Cross
Key Information:
• Country: France
• Order: Order of the Black Star of Benin
• Grade: Commander
• Type: Neck Badge
• Period: Interwar period, circa 1920–1935
• Hallmarks: Two hallmarks on suspension ring
• Weight of cross only: 52 g
• Dimensions: 118 mm including wreath suspender x 54.5 mm
Medal Design:
Six-pointed cross with blue and white enamel arms, set over a gilt radiating starburst.
Central black five-pointed star.
Suspended from a green enamel laurel wreath with small red berry details.
Neck ribbon in original light green moiré.
Condition:
• Enamel damage visible on blue arms
• Light wear to gilding
• Two hallmarks on suspension connector
• Original ribbon with age wear
• For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Order of the Black Star of Benin was established in 1889 and became one of France’s principal colonial decorations.
Commander grade neck badges were awarded to senior military officers, colonial administrators, and foreign dignitaries.
Interwar hallmarked examples are increasingly difficult to find, especially complete with original ribbon.
The substantial 52 g weight suggests silver construction with gilt finish, typical of higher quality French production of the period.
Summary:
A hallmarked interwar French Colonial Order of the Black Star of Benin Commander Neck Badge, complete with original neck ribbon.
A solid and collectible example of this important French colonial decoration.