(Wilhelm Orden, Brustern zum Kommandeurkreuz). Instituted 20 August 1851 by Elector Friedrich Wilhelm I. (1851-1866 issue). Constructed of silver and Gold, consisting of a Maltese Cross, the obverse with pebbled and ribbed arms, overlaid by a central blue enameled medallion bearing a raised Gold lion rampant, set within a circular and ribbed Gold ring, the reverse with three visible prongs securing the obverse applique in place, with a wide barrel hinge and vertical pinback meeting a rounded catch, unmarked, measuring 70.09 mm (w) x 70.19 mm (h), weighing 21.1 grams, with age-appropriate tarnishing visible, a scarce example in extremely fine condition.
Footnote: This particular example was featured as an exemplar of the award on page 293 of Karsten Klingbeil’s “Orden: 1700-2000”, Volume 1 (GO Druck Media, Kircheim unter Teck, 2008).

