Prussia, Kingdom. An Order of the Crown, I Class Cross in Gold and 'Brilliants', by Wagner, c. 1900

Instituted January 18, 1861 by King Wilhelm I. Type II (1867-1918). Civil Division. A First Class set of insignia, in Gold and "brilliants", comprising a sash badge, a 14Kt. Gold cross with white enamelled arms, the obverse medallion features a large gold crown with simulated rubies and emeralds on a field of simulated brilliants (glass), surrounded by a blue enamelled ring with the inscription GOTT MIT UNS (God be with us), the reverse medallion features the cypher of King William I, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed Den 18 October 186, the bottom of the 6 o’clock arm is marked “W” identifying the maker Wagner, Berlin, measures 62.50mm (w) x 67.75mm ( h – inclusive of integral loop), weighs 29.4 grams, enamels intact, minor wear to edges of arms, in extremely fine condition. The Star of the order, in silver, center in 14Kt. Gold, presenting 8 arms with clusters of five smooth rays, the obverse medallion presents a large gold crown surrounded by a blue enamelled ring with the inscription GOTT MIS UNS, again surrounded by a ring of simulated brilliants (glass), the reverse presents a single pin assembly with a W marked at the exterior base of the hinge (for Wagner, Berlin), measures 89.75mm (w) x 89.60mm (h), weighs 78.7 grams, lovely patina, small flakes to blue enamel ring, a beautiful star in extremely fine condition. All the simulated gems has been period added by the recipient, unofficially (old simulated brilliants -glass- clearly indicates this fact) . Circa 1910 period manufacture, impressive First Class set of insignia, very scarce.

Contained in an original case of issue featuring a black leatherette exterior with impressed golden cypher on the lid, the interior features a removable burgundy velvet medalbed, with space for the sash below, with a crème coloured silk lid. The case measures 130mm (w) x 136mm (l) x 52mm (d), light wear around edges and to base, in overall extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by a full-length cornflower blue sash badge, measuring 865mm in length (folded).

Footnote: This Order was founded by King Wilhelm I on the day of his coronation and it was awarded in recognition of civil and military merit. The introduction of a new order offered the opportunity to settle issues of rank and equality, following the takeover of the House Order of Hohenzollern under Royal Prussian Order in January of 1851. In 1861, designs for a “Wilhelm Order” were presented, however, the Prince Regent changed the name to the “Royal Crown Order”. The I Class Breast Star in Diamonds was awarded 69 times between 1872-1913. This decoration was preferably awarded to domestic high court and ministry officials. Between 1908-1918, the Diamond decorations were made by Berlin court jeweller Wagner & Sohn and Godet & Sohn.