Luxembourg, Kingdom. An Order of the Oak Crown, Officer’s Cross in Gold by Lemaitre, c. 1890

(Eechelaafkrounenuerden). Instituted December 29, 1841 by King Wilhelm II. Composed of 18K Gold, a white enamel cross with an oak leaf wreath in each quadrant, the obverse centre medallion presents a crowned W inscription on a green enameled field contained in a gold ring, the reverse mirrors the obverse, measures 33.85mm (w) x 37.62mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension ring), weighs 11.0 grams, unmarked, chips in white enamel on both obverse and reverse, light wear and residue around centre medallion, missing ribbon, near very fine condition. Contained in a hardshell black leatherette case with dark blue velvet interior, stamped FABRIQUE D’ORDERS LEMAITRE 40.R.Coquilliere.Paris on the interior silk lid, the base presents a half sized velvet medalbed with room for the ribbon, measures 57.85mm (w) x 114.04mm (l) x 27.37mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, light wear, overall very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Oak Crown is conferred upon civilians and military personnel of Luxembourg, as well as foreigners, in recognition of exceptional achievements. All awards are required to be returned following the death of a member or following their promotion to a higher grade. Promotion to a higher grade can only occur after a period of five years in the lower grade. In the late 1870s, Lemaitre’s addressed changed from 346 Rue Saint-Honore to “40 Rue Coquilliere.”