This item is part of Prestige & Distinction, Auction I: German Imperial Orders, Decorations & Awards . Click Here to view all items in this collection.
Instituted 1932. A Grand Cross set in silver gilt, the badge presenting a white enamelled cross with black enamelled border, the central medallion features the inscription BENE MERENTI on a white enamelled field, surrounded by a green enamelled wreath, the reverse medallion presents crowned FF monogram encircled by a black enamelled ring, the badge is surmounted by a large crown with red enamelled interior cap which is connected to a trophy suspension with flags, knights helmets and breastplates with the central black and white enamelled shield of the House of Hohenzollern, measures 62.9mm (w) x 118.5mm (h – inclusive of both suspensions), weighs 72.1grams, enamels intact, light wear, in extremely fine condition.
Accompanied by the cross of the order, in silver gilt, consisting of a cross pattee with white enamelled arms and a thick black border, the central medallion features the inscription BENE MERENTI on a white enamelled field, surrounded by a green enamelled wreath, the reverse presents a single vertical pin assembly with makers cartouche in the center denoting JUWELIERE GEBR. HEMMERLE VORM. ELCHINGER MUNCHEN, measures 62.5mm (w) x 63.2mm (h), weighs 39.8 grams, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition.
Includes a section of the Order’s neck ribbon.