Belgium, Kingdom. An Order of Leopold II, Grand Cross Sash Badge, c.1900

(Dutch: Orde van Leopold II, French: Ordre de Léopold II). Instituted in 1900. This silver gilt sash badge features a Maltese cross with ball finials and segments of laurel wreaths in each quadrant, the obverse central medallion presents a blue, black and white enamel crowned shield, in a blue enamel ring inscribed TRAVAIL ET PROGRESS (Labour and Progress), the reverse medallion presents the cypher of King Leopold II, the badge is surmounted by a large detailed royal crown adorned by a cross topped ball suspension which is connected to a suspension ring and double barrelled suspension loop, measures 51.62mm (w) x 83.22mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension and cross), weighs 61.2 grams, the suspension ring presents a French swan punch mark (for pieces made from silver, imported from countries without trading contract to France, since 1893), a Belgium “A950” mark denoting silver quality and along with maker’s mark of Fish Fernand Alfred Antoine, Brussels, enamels intact, light wear, very fine condition.