Württemberg. An Order of the Crown in Gold, 1st Class Knight’s Cross, c.1900

1892-1918 Issue. (Orden der Württembergischen Krone Ritterkreuz); a gold Maltese cross with white enameled arms; the obverse with a round central white enameled medallion depicting the Royal Monogram of Friedrich in gold, surrounded by a red ring of enamels, inscribed “Furchtlos und Trew” (German - Fearless and Loyal) in golden lettering; the reverse with a round central white enameled medallion depicting the royal crown in gold, surrounded by a red ring of enamels, inscribed “Furchtlos und Trew” (German - Fearless and Loyal) in golden lettering; on arabesques and a loop for suspension from its period original tri-fold ribbon; measuring 38.00 mm (w) x 37.98 mm (h); 12.2 grams (inclusive of ribbon), old gold test to 6 o'clock arm, in overall near 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.