Prussia, Kingdom. A Red Eagle Order in Gold, Grand Cross, by Wagner, c.1890

(Roter Adlerorden, Großkreuz). Instituted 12 June 1792 by King Frederick William II of Prussia. (1861-1918 Issue). An extremely well-preserved example of a Grand Cross of the Prussian Order of the Eagle, constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels, presenting as a Maltese Cross with white enameled arms, each connected by a red enameled stylized Brandenburg eagle (“Brandenburgischer Adler”), central medallion with raised gilt monogram of King Frederick William II of Prussia inside blue enameled ring with motto of “SINCERE ET CONSTANTER” (“SINCERELY AND STEADFASTLY”) in gilt text, reverse presents with central gilt medallion inscribed with class institution date of “DEN 18. OCTBR. 1861” (“THE 18th of OCTOBER 1861”), on loop for suspension from its period original neck ribbon, marked on bottom arm with “W” for maker Wagner, measuring 81.88 mm (h) x 81.97 mm (w), weighing 61.2 grams, tested for 14k Gold content, minor tarnishing of central gilt medallion and some flecking of enamels evident, otherwise in extremely fine condition.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.