The National Order of Honour and Merit (Ordre National Honneur et Mérite) is Haiti’s highest national decoration, instituted on 28 May 1926. It is awarded by the President of Haiti in five grades to both Haitian and foreign nationals for distinguished service in diplomacy, politics, the arts, humanitarian work, and other significant contributions to Haiti.
This particular example is of the Officer Class, the fourth-highest grade in the order’s hierarchy.
This specific piece:
Dimensions: 43.53 mm (height) x 37.23 mm (width)
Material: Silvered metal with white and blue enamel
Condition: Visible enamel chipping on reverse (please refer to pictures for detailed condition analysis).
Ribbon: Original, with expected signs of wear.
Design Features
Overall Shape & Suspension
White enamel Maltese cross, a traditional European-style chivalric design.
Laterally-pierced ball suspension, allowing attachment to the original ribbon.
Obverse (Front) Details
Central circular medallion featuring the Coat of Arms of Haiti:
Depicts palm trees, cannons, and a Phrygian cap, symbolizing freedom and national resilience.
Encircled by a blue enamel band, inscribed in gilt lettering:
"MÉDAILLE HONNEUR ET MÉRITE" (Medal of Honour and Merit).
Reverse (Back) Details
Circular central medallion inscribed:
"RÉPUBLIQUE D’HAÏTI" (Republic of Haiti).
Surrounded by a blue enamel band inscribed in gilt lettering:
"LIBERTÉ ÉGALITÉ FRATERNITÉ" (Liberty, Equality, Fraternity), the motto of Haiti.
Condition Issue: Small chips on white enamel and blue enamel loss on the reverse (see pictures).
Ribbon & Fastening
The medal is suspended from its original ribbon, a key factor in its authenticity and collectibility.
Historical Context
Institution & Purpose
Established on 28 May 1926, during a period of U.S. military occupation (1915–1934).
Inspired by European chivalric orders, reflecting Haiti’s historical ties to France and Masonic traditions.
Recognized civil and military achievements, including humanitarian efforts and contributions to national development.
Significance in Haitian & U.S. Military History
This order was awarded to foreign nationals, including U.S. Marines during peacekeeping operations in Haiti after World War I.
It remains a prestigious award, often compared to the U.S. Medal of Honor or France’s Légion d’Honneur.
This Haitian National Order of Honour and Merit, Officer Class, is a historically significant and highly collectible decoration. Despite minor enamel loss, it remains a rare and valuable artifact, reflecting Haiti’s highest national distinction for service and excellence.
For further evaluation and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel quality, and ribbon authenticity.