(St. Anna-Orden). Instituted September 19, 1783. 1783-1918 Issue. A lovely Gold cross with convex white enamelled arms bordered in dark blue enamel, between each arm is a small Gold circle with a central white enamel dot surrounded by an enamelled yellow semi-circle shaped line, the arms of the cross hand inscribed “SUB TUM PRAESIDIUM” (Under the Protection), with the obverse central medallion with a superimposed Gold figure of the Immaculata on a white enamelled field, the reverse medallion bears a Gold figure of the Bishop St. Benno, with the arms of the cross hand inscribed “PATRONUS NOSTER” (Our Holy Protector), measures 27.45mm (w) x 31.88mm (h – inclusive of integral ring suspension), weighs 13.9 grams (including ribbon), on a ring suspension attached to a period original ribbon, the medal displays enamel damage to the edges of the obverse central medallion and reverse medallion, pitting in the blue and yellow enamel on all arms, central gold figure minorly loose on reverse medallion, small knock to rim of 6 o’clock arm, however inscriptions are beautifully done, overall in very fine condition.
Accompanied by a beautiful partial sash of blue watered silk with silvered thread stripes down each edge, and a bow and tassel with sequins, silver wire and silver wrapped thread, measures 635mm (l) x 180mm (w – from top of bow to end of silver tassel), light staining, very unique sash, in extremely fine condition. Also accompanied by a beaded strap composed of blue, white, brown and black beads with a reinforced silk backing, each end presents a brass clasp with a sliding pinch ring, measures 465mm (l – including two end clasps) x 45mm (w – across beaded strap), all beads intact and both clasps functional, in extremely fine condition. Finally, a small brass tag with two holes, engraved Leutnant von Grafenstein 8. Ba. Cher. Rgt., reverse plain, measures 42mm (l) x 25mm (w), slight discolouration but a great addition to the set.
Contained in a cardboard box, exterior lid with hand written text describing the contents, lid hinges along one side to base, measures 205mm (l) x 135mm( w) x 50mm (d), heavily worn, one edge of lid missing, interior lid employing tape, period original, fine condition.
Footnote: The Medal was established on September 19, 1783, by the widow of Elector Maximilian III. Joseph, Maria Anna Sophie and it conferred upon the daughters of the Bavarian Catholic nobility. In order to receive the Order and enter the convent of St. Anna in Munich, the unmarried applicant had to be eighteen years of age and be able to prove at least sixteen noble ancestors. However, the number of noble ancestors was later altered to eight. Beginning in 1808, Protestant women were accepted, and in 1841, foreigners were also accepted in the Order.