The compounds CrLn(8)Ter(13)Cl (Ln = Sm, Gd, Tb) have been prepared from the solid-stare reaction of Ln, Cr, Te, and CrCl3 at 850 degreesC. These isostructural compounds crystallize in a new structure type that comprises a succession along the c axis of alternating distorted double rock-salt-type layers and a related CdI2-type layer. This structure bears some resemblance to the framework of certain misfit layer compounds.