Original Belgian award, gilt and white enamel cross with ribbon, slight enamel damage
Key Features
Country: Belgium 🇧🇪
Decoration: Civic Decoration (Civic Cross) – Décoration Civique / Burgerlijke Ereteken
Class: First Class (Gold Cross)
Awarded for: Long service in the Administration (Civil Service)
Material: Gilt with white enamel arms
Ribbon: Original red with black stripes
Dimensions: approx. 49.85 × 35.78 mm
Fastening: Suspension with original ribbon
Period: Early 20th century
Description
Original Belgian Civic Decoration – First Class Cross, awarded to civil servants for long and faithful service in the administration.
This version bears the monogram “L” for King Leopold II, indicating manufacture during his reign (1865–1909) or shortly thereafter.
The decoration consists of a gilt Maltese cross with white enamel arms, between which are stylized laurel branches, suspended from the red and black striped ribbon symbolizing civil merit.
Dimensions: approx. 49.85 × 35.78 mm
Material: Gilt metal with white enamel
Condition: Good vintage condition. Slight enamel damage visible on the central medallion. Original ribbon with minor age wear.
This is an authentic piece — ideal for collectors of Belgian orders and decorations, civil service awards, and European royal medals.
Historical Note
The Civic Decoration was established in 1867 and awarded in multiple classes for acts of courage, devotion, and long service in both civil and military administration.
The First Class gilt cross represents one of the higher distinctions for career service.