Prussia, Kingdom. An Order of the Red Eagle, I Class Cross in Gold, by H.J. Wilm, c.1900

(Roter Adler Orden, I. Klasse in Gold). Instituted 12 June 1792 by King Friedrich Wilhelm II. (1854-1918). Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with white enameled arms, the obverse bearing a central white enameled medallion overlaid by an extremely detailed and hand-painted Prussian imperial eagle executed in red, set within a circular Gold ring, the reverse bearing an analogous central white enameled medallion overlaid by a gilded and dimpled monogram of King Friedrich Wilhelm II, set within a circular Gold ring, the twelve o’clock arm topped by an integral ring retaining a suspension loop, in turn affixed to a period original replacement sash ribbon with a functional spring clip meeting the loop of the cross, the core maker marked “WILM” for the court jeweller of H.J. Wilm, Berlin, measuring 58.16 mm (w) x 62.82 mm (h), weighing 33.8 grams, a rare example by a prestigious manufacturer in extremely fine condition.