France Historical medal Louis XIV – Order of Saint Louis (Military Order), Established 1693 (1970's) 72.9g - 51mm Obverse: Right-facing portrait of Louis XIV, with the surrounding inscription “LVDOVICVS MAGNVS REX CHRISTIANISSIMVS.” Signature “HVPPIERE. F” below. Reverse: Insignia of the Order of Saint Louis, consisting of a crowned Maltese cross with central medallion and surrounding ribbon. Outer inscription: “ORDO MILITARIS S. LVDOVICI • ALVDOVICO • MAGNO • INSTITVTVS • M. DC. XCIII.” Around the central medallion: “BELLICAE VIRTUTIS PRAEMIVM.” The Order of Saint Louis, founded in 1693 by King Louis XIV, was one of the most prestigious military distinctions of the French monarchy. Created at a time when France stood at the height of its power, the order was intended to reward exceptional bravery and loyal service among Catholic officers. It marked a shift in royal policy by offering recognition based on merit rather than noble birth, an innovation that helped strengthen the bond between the crown and its professional army. The order was divided into three classes: Chevalier, Officier, and Commandeur, each awarded with great ceremony. Its distinctive insignia—a red-enamelled Maltese cross bearing the effigy of Saint Louism, became a symbol of honour that officers proudly wore on their uniforms. Membership also offered social advantages, including certain privileges and, for many recipients, a modest lifetime pension. Although the order was suspended during the French Revolution, it was revived under the Bourbon Restoration and continued to be awarded until the final fall of the monarchy in 1830.