(Verdienstorden der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, Großkreuz des Verdienstordens). Instituted in 1951. Three-piece construction, in bronze gilt with red and black enamels, measuring 71.2 mm (w) x 76.2 mm (h), intact enamels, on its full-length sash incorporating multiple embroidered Federal Republic coat-of-arms throughout, extremely fine.
Footnote: The Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany was instituted on September 7, 1951 and awarded for achievements contributing to the peaceful rise of the Federal Republic of Germany.

