Physical Description

In gold and silver, consisting of a stylized letter “H” topped by a royal crown, the obverse inset with 40 cut glass diamonds, the reverse with a loop for the accommodation of a ribbon, unmarked, measuring 25.14 mm (w) x 59.50 mm (h), weighing 14.8 grams.

History

The Ducal Letter Decoration was established by Duke Heinrich in 1830. It was established as an award for senior state officials who had loyally served him and his brother, Ferdinand for 50 years, and who during this time had rendered particularly meritorious service to the prince and fatherland. In 1847, the Anhalt-Köthen line ended and the awards ceased.