Baden, Grand Duchy. A Rare Order of the Zähringer Lion, Breast Star to the Grand Cross, c.1917

(Orden vom Zähringer Löwen, Bruststern zum Großkreuz). Instituted 26 December 1812 by Grand Duke Karl Friedrich (Statutes issued 17 June 1840 by Grand Duke Leopold). (1815-1918 issue). Constructed of silver with gilt and multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of an eight-pointed radiant star, bearing a central red enameled medallion overlaid by a gilded lion rampant, set within a white enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “FÜR EHRE UND WAHRHEIT” (“FOR HONOUR AND TRUTH”) and a green enameled laurel leaf wreath within a gilded frame, the reverse with a raised barrel hinge and tapering vertical pinback meeting a rounded catch, unmarked, measuring 87.54 mm (w) x 87.23 mm (h), weighing 71.2 grams, a striking late-period example in extremely fine condition.