(Albrecht-Orden, Ritterkreuz 1. Klasse). Instituted 1850 by King Friedrich August II of Saxony. Type II. (1876-1918 Issue). A fine silver gilt award featuring a white enamelled Latin Cross, with green laurels detailed with red enamelled berries, with silver gilt swords in each quadrant, obverse presenting with a central medallion composed of a gilt relief of Duke Albrecht III of Saxony inside a blue enamelled ring bearing the Order’s motto of ALBERTUS ANIMOSUS (ALBERT THE MERCIFUL), reverse with a central medallion composed of a crowned royal coat of arms in silver gilt and enamels, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring bearing the Order’s institution date of 1850, marked on three o’clock arm SCHARFFENBERG, marked on six o’clock arm S, marked on nine o’clock arm DRESDEN, measuring 37.45 mm (w) x 50.50 mm (w), weighs 24.8 grams (including ribbon), with light enamel wear and minor loss to blue enamel on obverse, on loop for suspension from its period original triangular ribbon, and in overall very fine condition.
Footnote: This Order was instituted by King Freidrich August II in commemoration of the 350th anniversary of the death of his predecessor Duke Albert III, also known as Albert the Bold. The Order was awarded to recognize general merit and service to the States, such as civil merit, military merit, and merit in art and science. A total of 3253 were awarded in Gold and 4815 were awarded in gilded silver.