(Kungliga Svärdsordens). Instituted in 1749. Type II (1772-1975). In 18K Gold, a white enamel Maltese cross with ball finials, with a large crown between each arm, two blue enamelled crossed swords sit atop the cross, surmounted by a crown suspension with white enamelled tips and white, red and green enamel detailing across the band, the obverse centerpiece bears a blue enamel field with three crowns surrounding a sword, the reverse center piece also bears a blue enamel field with a sword piercing a wreath with PRO PATRIA (For the Fatherland) inscribed above, maker marked in the 7 o’clock knee of the cross denoting C.F Carlman manufacture, with a Swedish state control mark from 1752, a city assay mark denoting Lycksele, 18K confirming Gold standard and date letter K9 (1960 manufacture), measuring 39mm (w) x 59.2mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension with adorning cross), weighing 15.9 grams (including ribbon), worn on original ribbon, enamels intact, extremely fine condition.
Footnote: This Order was founded by King Frederick I in 1748. It is still technically a Swedish Order, but it has not been awarded since 1975. It was conferred upon Swedish military personnel for long and meritorious service. At the time of its creation the Order was composed of only two grades, the I Class Commander and the I Class Knight. The Commander Grand Cross was created in 1772, the II Class Commander was created in 1873, and the II Class Knight was created in 1889.