Prussia, Kingdom. A Rare Order of the Red Eagle, IV Class Cross, c. 1850

(Roter Adler Orden, IV. Klasse Kreuz). Instituted 12 June 1792 by King Friedrich Wilhelm II; IV Class instituted 18 January 1830 by King Friedrich Wilhelm III. (1848-1854 issue). Constructed of silver, on loop for suspension from a period correct replacement ribbon, consisting of a Cross Pattée with ribbed border, the obverse bearing a central white enameled medallion overlaid by a hand-painted Prussian imperial eagle executed in a purple hue, the reverse bearing a central raised monogram of King Friedrich Wilhelm II, unmarked, measuring 35.18 mm (w) x 39.60 mm (h), weighing 11.2 grams, with loosening of the enameled medallion evident, a scarce variation in near extremely fine condition.