Schwarzburg, Duchy. A Schwarzburg Duchy Honour Cross, Civil Division, Miniature, c. 1900

Instituted on May 20, 1853 by Prince Friedrich Gunther of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt. In silver gilt, a white enamel Maltese cross, obverse center present s a superimposed rearing crowned lion on a blue enamel field surrounded by a decorative silver frame, the reverse presents a blue enamel field with the crowned cypher GFC surrounded by a decorative silver frame, measures 15.00mm (w) x 15.90mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension ring), weighs 1.6 grams, light cracking in white enamel arms, dark patina, wear to reverse inscription, scattered gilt wear, near very fine condition.

Footnote: The Schwarzburg Duchy Honour Cross was founded on May 20, 1853, by Prince Friedrich Günther of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt and it was originally awarded as meritorious service award. On June 28, 1857, the decoration became a shared Order with the Princely House of Schwarzburg-Sondershausen.