Württemberg, Kingdom. A Military Merit Order, Knight’s Cross, c.1916

(Militär-Verdienstorden, Ritterkreuz). 1914-1918 Issue. A silver gilt Maltese cross with white enameled arms; the obverse with a central white enameled medallion with a green enameled laurel wreath, surrounded by a broad blue enameled ring, inscribed “FURCHTLOS UND TREW” (German - Fearless and Loyal); the reverse with a central white enameled medallion, bearing the crowned royal cipher of Wilhelm; on a double loop suspension from its period original ribbon; measuring 36.44 mm (w) x 39.57 mm (h); weighing 14.6 grams; with the majority of its original gilt worn off, in overall near very fine condition.

Footnote: With a total of 2289 of this Military Merit Order, Knight’s Cross awarded.

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.