Distinctions & Wearing Regulations

The Order of the European Lion honours individuals who demonstrate exceptional courage, merit, and societal significance. Each grade has its own manner of wearing, ceremonial use, and appropriate occasions.

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1. Classes of the Order

The Order comprises the following grades:

Knight

Officer

Commander

Grand Officer

Grand Cross

Each grade exists in three forms: Grand Model, Small Model, Ribbon/Pin.

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Additionally, various insignia exist in the form of:

• Lion Medal with wreath and diamond

• Small Gold Medal

• Large Medal (Gold/Silver)

• Award Coin with diamond

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2. Wearing Methods per Distinction

KNIGHT

Grand Model – Gentlemen — Ribbon on the left chest; for official ceremonies and investitures

Grand Model – Ladies — Bow on the left side; for official ceremonies and investitures

Small Model — On the left lapel at galas, receptions, and formal dinners Ribbon/Pin 

Small bow pin on the left chest; suitable for daily and semi‑formal wear

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OFFICER

Grand Model – Gentlemen — Ribbon with rosette on the left chest; for solemn ceremonies

Grand Model – Ladies — Bow with rosette on the left side; for official ceremonies and investitures Small Model 

Miniature with rosette on the left side Ribbon/Pin

Rosette on the left side; daily and semi‑formal wear

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COMMANDER

Grand Model – Gentlemen & Ladies — Worn on a neck ribbon, resting on the sternum

Small Model — Miniature on the left lapel Ribbon/Pin

Rosette with silver accent

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GRAND OFFICER

Grand Model – Gentlemen & Ladies — Silver‑gold star on the left chest

Small Model — Miniature of the neck ribbon with silver ribbon Ribbon/Pin

Rosette with silver and gold accent

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GRAND CROSS

Grand Model – Gentlemen — Broad ceremonial sash worn diagonally with gold star

Grand Model – Ladies — Narrow ceremonial sash worn diagonally with gold star

Small Model — Miniature on the left lapel Ribbon/Pin

Rosette with gold accent

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3. GENERAL WEARING REGULATIONS

Grand distinctions are worn at official activities of the Order, with gala attire: black tie – white tie; evening dress.

Miniatures are worn at galas, receptions, formal dinners, business suits, and formal attire.

Ribbon/pin may be worn daily.

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IMPORTANT:

• Grand Model and Small Model are never worn simultaneously.

• When multiple distinctions are held, only the highest grade is worn.

• Medals may accompany a grade but never surpass it.

• Suits or casual clothing are unsuitable for Grand or Small Models (pin excepted).

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The Chapter of the Order of the European Lion

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