Labour Decoration, Type I, in Silver

SKU: 02.BEL.0164.102.01

Estimated market value:

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Estimated market value:

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Attributes

country

Belgium
date of institution

November 7, 1847
remarks

There are believed to be at least three different versions of the Type I Decoration which vary in the types of tools surrounding the centre crest, but more research is necessary for confirmation. The Silver Medal images are reproduced from Leopold van Hollebeke, L'Ordre de Léopold et les marques d'honneur créés en Belgique depuis 1830: histoire et législation d'après les documents officiels (Brussels: A. Boitte, 1880), 92-93.The book falls within the public domain in countries and areas where the copyright term is the author's life plus 70 years, or less.

History

This Decoration has undergone a number of reforms since its creation in 1847 including its form, name, and awarding statutes.

It is classified into two types based on the changes outlined in official documents. Type I Decorations were awarded from 1847-1863, and Type II Decorations have been awarded since 1863.

The Type I award, the “Decoration for Workers and Artisans,” was created to recognize and reward contestants in industrial exhibitions. It was extended to agricultural workers in 1848, and to fishermen in 1861. The Gold Medal was only awarded to those who had previously received a Silver Medal.

The obverse inscription translates to “Skill, Morality."

There is limited information regarding the form and variations of this Type. The only official information stipulates that the award was suspended from a small chain and that the recipient’s name was inscribed on the reverse. There is believed to be at least three different versions of the Type I Decoration which vary in the tools surrounding the centre crest.