Hannover, Kingdom. An Ernst August Order, 2nd Class Knight, c.1870

(Ernst August Orden Ritterkreuz 2. Klasse). Issued 1866-1878. A silver Maltese cross with ball finals and white enameled arms, and with royal crowns between each of the arms of the cross; the obverse with a central red enameled medallion depicting the royal cipher of Ernst August, surrounded by a dark blue enameled ring, inscribed “Suscipere et finire” (Latin - To finish what was started); the reverse with a central red enameled medallion depicting the Georgius V Rex, surrounded by a blue blue ring of enamels, inscribed “Den XV December MDCCCLXV”; on a horizontally pierced ball suspension from its period original ribbon; measuring 36.18 mm (w) x 39.23 mm (h); weighing 15.1 grams; the enamels on the obverse and reverse with moderate contact marks from wear; in overall near very fine condition.