(Fürstlich Lippischer Hausorden Ehrenkreuz II. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 25 October 1869 by Prince Leopold II of Lippe and Prince Adolf Georg I of Schaumburg-Lippe. Type II. (1890-1918). A well-executed silver gilt Maltese cross with white enamel arms, sections of crossed swords composed of silver gilt pierce the center of the decoration, the obverse medallion features a Gold and red enamelled Lippe rose on a white enamelled field, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed “FÜR TREUE UND VERDIENST” (FOR LOYALTY AND SERVICE), encircled by an eight point star with clusters of nine small smooth rays, the reverse features a crowned “L” monogram on a beautiful red enamelled field, encircled by an eight point star with clusters of nine small smooth rays, the twelve o’clock arm presents an integrated decorative fan and surmounting loop, connecting to a suspension ring , measures 59.73mm (w) x 69.55 (h), weighs 46.1 grams, light enamel wear to one petal of the rose and minimal wear to obverse arms of the cross, one sword hilt is loose, however in near extremely fine condition and a beautiful piece for any collection.
Accompanied by a solid red neck ribbon, measuring 435mm (l) x 62mm (h), light wear, very fine condition.
Footnote: This Order was instituted by Prince Leopold III of Lippe and Adolf-Georg of Schaumburg-Lippe and was conferred in recognition of distinguished civil and military merit. In 1890, the Schaumburg-Lippe House established its own Order and the House Order of the Honour Cross was no longer conferred as a joint award. The Statues of the Order remained the same, but the reverse monogram was changed from “LA” to “L.”