Hohenzollern, State. A House Order of Hohenzollern, III Class with Swords, c.1870

(Hausorden von Hohenzollern, Ehrenkreuz 3. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted on 5 December 1841. (1866 Issue). A silver cross pattée with convex edges and curved arms, with swords crossed between the arms, featuring a black enamelled border on each arm, featuring a wreath of laurel leaves between the left arms of the cross and oak leaves between the right arms, centre obverse presenting a white-enamelled medallion bearing the Hohenzollern coat of arms (a quartered shield of black and white) under a princely crown, around the medallion is a gilt-rimmed band of blue enamel bearing the motto in gold letters FÜR TREUE UND VERDIENST (FOR LOYALTY AND MERIT), with a small wreath of oak leaves below the inscription, reverse centre presents a white-enamelled medallion bearing the intertwined ciphers FC for Friedrich and Carl, under a princely crown, the gilt-rimmed band of blue enamel bears the date DEN 8TH APRIL 1844, measuring 39.10 mm (w) x 43.20 mm (h), with enamel wear, loss of gilt on swords, and scattered patina, remains very fine.

Footnote: 1029 of this particular class awarded.