(Pour le Mérite). Instituted June 1740 by King Friedrich II. (1740-1918 issue; c. 1960 manufacture). A rare and unique Pour le Mérite, constructed of 14k Gold, consisting of a Maltese Cross with each arm joined through the quadrants by a double-sided Prussian imperial eagles, the obverse with blue enameled arms, bearing a gilt inscription of “POUR LE MÉRITE” set over the three, six, and nine o’clock arm, with the twelve o’clock arm bearing a crowned gilt monogram of King Friedrich II, the reverse three and nine o’clock arms bearing von Hoeppner’s engraved name and title, the six o’clock arm bearing Kaiser Wilhelm II’s engraved signature with a date of “8. 4. 1917” (the date of von Hoeppner’s receipt of the original decoration), and the twelve o’clock am bearing an engraved monogram of Kaiser Wilhelm II, the twelve o’clock arm with an integral loop connecting to a suspension ring, unmarked but with the physical characteristics of manufacture by the firm of C.F. Rothe & Neffe, Vienna, measuring 50.92 mm (w) x 50.70 mm (h), weighing 24.4 grams, with some chipping and scratching visible throughout the enamels and evidence of possible re-finishing, an unusual and high-quality commemorative piece in very fine condition.
Footnote: A former Prussian cavalry Officer, Ernst von Hoeppner served as Commanding General of the Luftstreitkräfte (Imperial Germany Army Air Service) from 1916 until 1919. Although credited with effectively organizing Germany’s flying troops, as a non-combatant, his nomination for the Pour le Mérite was resented by other Officers.