Hannover, State. An Ernst-August Order, Knight’s Cross, Second Class, c.1870

(Ernst-August Orden, Ritterkreuz 2. Klasse). Issued 1866-1878. A silver Maltese cross with white enameled arms and ball fines, with solid crowns affixed between each of the arms of the cross; the obverse with a red enameled central medallion bearing the royal cipher of Ernst August in silver, surrounded by a broad blue enameled ring, inscribed “SUSCIPERE ET FINIRE” (Lain - To fight and to finish); the reverse with a similar red central enameled medallion, inscribed with the same cipher, surrounded by a broad ring of blue enamels, circumscribed “DEN XV DECEMBER MDCCCLXV” (the 15. December 1865); on a loop for suspension from its period original ribbon; measuring 36.60 mm (w) x 36.15 mm (h); weighing 17.8 grams; with attractive dark patina from age, in overall very fine condition.

Footnote: With a total of 409 of this Ernst-August Order, Knight's Cross Second Class awarded. 

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.