Hesse-Darmstadt, Grand Duchy. An Order of Philip the Magnanimous in Gold, I Class Knight’s Cross

(Orden Philipps der Großmüthigen, Ritterkreuz I. Klasse). Instituted on 1 May 1840 by Ludwig II. (1849-1919 issue). Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with a Gold frame and white enameled arms, the obverse with a central medallion bearing a raised gilt profile of Philip I on a blue enameled background, surrounded by a white enameled ring with a gilt inscription of “SI DEUS NOBISCUM, QUIS CONTRA NOS” (“IF GOD IS WITH US, WHO CAN BE AGAINST US?”) the reverse with an analogous medallions bearing a red and white enameled Hessian lion rampant on a blue enameled background, surrounded by a white enameled ring with a gilt inscription of “LUDOVICUS II MAGN DUX HASSIAE INSTIT” (“INSTITUTED BY LUDWIG II, GRAND DUKE OF HESSE”), measuring 40.27 mm (w) x 44.29 mm (h), weighing 13.4 grams, minor flecking of enamels, otherwise in extremely fine condition.