Saxony-Ernestine. An House Order, Second Class Knight’s Cross with Swords, c.1917

1864-1935 Issue (Hausorden Ritterkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern); a silver Maltese cross with white enameled arms and ball finals, as well as lions and crossed swords between the arms; the obverse depicting a round silver gilt medallion of Ernst des Frommen, surrounded by a blue enameled ring inscribed “Fideliter & Constanter” (Latin - Loyal and Resistant) in gilt lettering, surrounded by an enameled laurel wreath; the reverse with a round central medallion featuring the enameled Coat of Arms, surrounded by a blue enameled ring dated “D. 25. December 1833” in gilt lettering, surrounded by an enameled laurel wreath; suspended from a swivel crown suspension and its period original ribbon; measuring 45.13 mm (w) x 68.60 mm (h); weighing 27.8 grams; with the enamels extremely well preserved; in overall extremely fine condition.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.