Braunschweig, Duchy. A Rare Order of Henry the Lion, I Class Cross with Swords, by Hermann Jürgens

(Orden Heinrich des Löwen Kreuz I. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 25 April 1834 by Duke Wilhelm. (1908-1918 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with blue enameled arms and with crossed swords piercing the centrepiece, the obverse bearing a central ribbed medallion overlaid by a gilded monogram of Duke Wilhelm, the reverse bearing a central ribbed medallion overlaid by a gilded inscription of “IMMOTA FIDES” (“UNSHAKABLE LOYALTY”), the twelve o’clock arm topped by a pebbled fan perforated with a loop connecting to a suspension ring with a period original full-length sash ribbon, the fan maker marked with the logo of Hermann Jürgens, Braunschweig, alongside a crown and crescent moon indicating German manufacture and a silver content number of “900”, measuring 67.82 mm (w) x 69.05 mm (h), weighing 42.0 grams, a scarce and striking example in extremely fine condition.