Saxony, Kingdom. An Order of Merit, I Class Commander’s Star, by G.A. Scharffenberg

(Verdienstorden Bruststern zum Komtur). Instituted 7 June 1815 by King Friedrich August I. (1815-1918 issue). Type II. Constructed of silver with multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of a four-pointed radiant starburst, with a central white enameled disc bearing a gilt inscription of “FÜR VERDIENST UND TREUE” (“FOR SERVICE AND LOYALTY”), surrounded by a circular green enameled oak leaf wreath set within a gilded frame, in turn surrounded by a gilded and pebbled ring, the reverse with a raised barrel hinge and banjo-style pinback meeting a flat wire catch, maker marked “G.A. SCHARFFENBERG, DRESDEN”, indicating manufacture by the official Saxon court jeweller, measuring 87.76 mm (w) x 88.26 mm (h), weighing 48.9 grams, with minor flecking of enamels evident, a scarce example in extremely fine condition.