| The basis of the medals of the
Order of the Netherlands Lion is the 'decoration', a four-armed white
enamel cross hanging from a crown. In the middle of the cross, there is
a blue enamel medallion with the legend: VIRTUS NOBILITAT (virtue
ennobles). The reverse of the decoration is similar, but instead of
text in the middle of the medallion, there is an image of the
Netherlands Lion. Between the arms of the cross, there is a stylised
'W'. The design for servicemen is the same.
The ribbon on which the decoration of the Order of the
Netherlands Lion is worn is Nassau blue with an orange stripe on the
left and right.
The appearance of the decoration differs for each
degree. The higher the degree, the larger the decoration and the wider
the ribbon. The grades Grand Cross and Commander also receive a breast
star. There is a ladies and men's model of each decoration.
When conferred, these decorations are hung and/or pinned
on. They are only worn in a limited number of other situations. The
person being honoured receives a so-called miniature or ribbon for
everyday dress.
In addition to the decorations, the person being
honoured receives a deed stating his/her name and the grade of the
honour. The date and the number of the relevant Royal decree are also
shown on the deed.
The following pages describe the medals and miniatures of the various grades, both ladies' and men's models.
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