Hohenzollern. A Rare House Order, Honour Commander Cross in Gold with Swords on Ring, c.1914

(Fürstlicher Hausorden von Hohenzollern, Ehrenkomturkreuz in Gold mit Schwertern am Ring). Instituted 5 December 1841 by Prince Friedrich Wilhelm of Hohenzollern-Hechingen and Prince Carl of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen. (Honour Commander Cross c. 1900 issue; swords issued 1928). Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with white enameled arms trimmed with black enamel and set within a Gold frame, the arms joined together through the quadrants by a circular and green enameled laurel and oak leaf wreath, with details highlighted in gilt, the obverse bearing a central white enameled medallion overlaid by a Hohenzollern coat of arms, within a ring of blue enamel bearing a gilt inscription of “FÜR TREUE UND VERDIENST” (“FOR LOYALTY AND MERIT”) joined together at the bottom by laurel branches, the reverse bearing a central white enameled medallion overlaid by a gilded and crowned monogram of Prince Ludwig, within a ring of blue enamel bearing a gilt expansion date of “DEN 10. FEBRUAR 1891” joined together at the bottom by laurel branches, topped by an integral loop connecting to a crossed sword clasp, in turn culminating in an integral loop and suspension ring with a period original shortened length of neck ribbon, unmarked, measuring 50.92 mm (w) x 56.18 mm (h), weighing 31.7 grams, demonstrating only minor flecking of enamels, an exceptionally rare award in extremely fine condition.