(Schwarzer-Adler-Orden Bruststern). Instituted 17 January 1701 by Elector Friedrich III of Brandenburg (later King Friedrich I of Prussia). (1701-1918 issue). A rare and extremely well-preserved Breast Star of the Order of the Black Eagle, constructed of silver with Gold and enamels, consisting of an eight-pointed radiant star with pebbled arms, the obverse with a central meshed gilt medallion bearing a black enameled Hohenzollern eagle, within a pebbled silver ring, in turn circumscribed by a raised gilt inscription of “SUUM CUIQUE” (“TO EACH THEIR OWN”), with laurel branches constructed of a Gold frame with green enamels, in turn set within a final pebbled silver ring, the reverse with a barrel hinge and tapering vertical pinback, flanked on each side by stabilizing hooks, unmarked but with the physical characteristics of a manufacture period circa 1825, measuring 76.95 mm (w) x 76.90 mm (h), weighing 59.80 grams, some chipping of the enamels is evident along with some age-appropriate oxidation of the silver features, in overall better than very fine condition and accompanied by a certificate of authentication and appraisal by Andreas Schulze Ising and Bernd Kruse, dated 16 March 2019.
Footnote: Early breast stars of the Order of the Black Eagle were issued in embroidered form, with silver examples such as the star offered being specially commissioned pieces that, at the time of manufacture, cost the equivalent of a doctor’s monthly salary.
Accompanied by an Authentication and Appraisal by Andreas M. Schulze Ising and Bernd Kruse, dated March 16th 2019.