Saxony, Kingdom. A Rare Order of Merit, Civil Division Commander’s Star, by G.A. Scharffenberg, c.1900
(Verdienstorden Bruststern zum Komtur). Instituted 7 June 1815 by King Friedrich August I. (1891-1918 issue). Constructed of silver with Gold and multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a four-pointed star, the obverse presenting with ribbed arms simulating rays, with a central white enameled medallion bearing a gilt inscription of “FÜR VERDIENST UND TREUE” (“FOR MERIT AND LOYALTY”), surrounded by a ring of white enamel overlaid by a circular oak leaf wreath with leaves executed in green enamel and set within a Gold frame, in turned surrounded by dual pebbled Gold rings, the reverse with a raised barrel hinge and banjo-style pinback meeting a rounded catch, with a maker’s mark of “G.A. SCHARFFENBERG, GOLDARBEITER F. D. K. S. ORDENSCANZ., DRESDEN” circumscribing a Saxon coat of arms, measuring 87.84 mm (w) x 87.66 mm (h), weighing 52.0 grams, a rare example of exceptional quality, in extremely fine condition.

