Hesse-Darmstadt, Grand Duchy. An Order of Ludwig, Miniature Knight’s Cross in Gold, c. 1830

(Großherzoglich Hessischer Ludewigsorden, Ritterkreuz Miniatur in Gold). Instituted 25 August 1807 by Grand Duke Ludwig I. (c. 1830 issue). Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with black and red enameled arms, the obverse with a central red enameled medallion bearing a Gold monogram of Grand Duke Ludwig I, within a ring a white enamel bearing a gilt inscription of “FÜR VERDIENSTE” (“FOR MERIT”), the reverse with a central white enameled medallion bearing a gilt inscription of “GOTT, EHRE, VATERLAND” (“GOD, HONOUR, FATHERLAND”), within a circular green enameled laurel wreath, the twelve o’clock arm topped by a crown suspension with loop retaining a period original ribbon, unmarked, measuring 17.25 mm (w) x 31.04 mm (h) (inclusive of suspension), with minor flecking of enamels evident, in extremely fine condition.