Lot 135
[Society of the Cincinnati] French Miniature Eagle Insignia. H: 26.15 mm. W: 14.26 mm. c. 1920. Suspended from a pale blue and white ribbon attached by a larger loop to a smaller loop at the top of the eagle. Separate rosette button. Obv: Head left with distinct crest; neck elongated; white enamel on neck and diamond-shaped tail. Cincinnatus receives sword from two senators. Motto in gold letters on blue enamel: VIRT PRAEM SOC CINC INST 1783. Reverse: Cincinnatus at plow in medallion. Gold letters on blue enamel background: OMN RELINQ SERV REMP.
At the first meeting of the Society of the Cincinnati in May 1783 it was decided that officers of the French Army and Navy above certain ranks would also be able to join; consequently, the French Society of the Cincinnati was organized on July 4, 1784. Even though King Louis XVI had not allowed his officers to wear any foreign decorations, he made an exception in favor of the badge of the Cincinnati. French members included Generals Lafayette and Rochambeau and Admiral de Grasse.
Estimated Value $400 - 600.
Estate of Elihu Church.
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| Realized $252 |
