(Sachsen-Ernestinischer Hausorden Ritterkreuz 2. Klasse). Instituted on 25 March 1833. Type 2. (Issued 1864-1935). A silver Maltese cross with white enamelled arms and ball finials, with lions between the arms of the cross, the obverse centre presents a Gold medallion with a leftward facing bust of Ernst the Pious, surrounded by a light blue enamelled ring, inscribed “FIDELITER & CONSTANTER” (“FAITHFUL & STEADFAST”) in golden lettering, with a green enamelled wreath around the outer edge, the reverse presents the coat of arms of Saxony with the green trefoil leaves on a horizontal, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring, inscribed “D. 25. DEZEMBER 1833” in golden lettering with a green enamelled wreath around the outer edge, measuring 44.95 mm (w) x 70.15 mm (h - inclusive of crown), weighing 22.9 grams, presents minor enamel wear on obverse cross and additional wear around the green wreath, suspended from a swivel crown suspension, with a horizontally-pierced ball and ring suspension, with its period original ribbon, and in better than very fine condition.
Footnote: The Saxe-Ernestine House Order is a joint award of the Saxon duchies. Between 1890 and 1913, 872 people received the Knight’s Cross 2nd Class.