Attributes

• Country

  Germany
• Composition

  Silver gilt/Enamelled
• Inscription

  Obv: HSCW BENEFICENCIA ET VIRTUTE Rev: BENE MERENTIBUS
• Size

  41mm
• Version Remarks

  A Maltese cross, constructed of silver gilt and enamels. The cross is enamelled in white with golden borders, and each cross arm tip features a golden ball finial. Between each cross arm is a green enamelled laurel and oak leaf wreath with golden borders and red enamelled fruits. Each cross arm features a golden letter: ‘P’ (12 o’clock), ‘P’ (9 o’clock), ‘D’ (3 o’clock), ‘E’ (6 o’clock) (the meaning is unknown). The centre medallion is blue enamelled and features a red enamelled lion with a golden crown walking to the left. Around it is the circular inscription ‘BENE MERENTIBUS’ (‘for good service’). The golden medallion ring is smooth and narrow. The reverse is similar, except with the monograms of the four emperors: ‘H’ (12 o’clock), ‘S’ (9 o’clock), ‘C’ (3 o’clock), ‘W’ (6 o’clock). The reverse medallion features St. Philip in gold, the patron saint of the order. The medallion ring is golden, smooth, and narrow on the inside and outside, and features a pearl decoration in the centre. On a loop for suspension, on a red ribbon with narrow yellow side stripes.