Reuss, Principality. A Princely Honour Cross, III Class with Swords, c. 1916
(Fürstlich Reußisches Ehrenkreuz, III. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 24 May 1869 by Prince Heinrich XIV. (1909-1918 issue). Constructed of silver with Gold and enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with pebbled arms joined through the quadrants by a ribbed starburst, the obverse centrepiece pierced by crossed swords, bearing a central red enameled medallion overlaid by a gilded Reuss coat of arms, surrounded by a Gold ring, the reverse bearing a central black enameled medallion, overlaid by a Gold monogram of Prince Heinrich XIV, surrounded by a Gold ring, topped by a detailed crown suspension situated on a swivel hinge, in turn connecting to a period original ribbon stitched in parade style, unmarked, measuring 40.62 mm (w) x 62.22 mm (h), weighing 19.0 grams (inclusive of ribbon), in extremely fine condition.

