Order of the Wendish Crown, Civil Division, Grand Cross (with gold crown)
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.MSW.0101.102.01.000
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
The Grand Cross constructed of extremely fine 18kt gold in the form of a Maltese Cross featuring ball finals on the arms, with white, red, and blue enamels, with solid gold and exceptionally detained lions between the arms of the cross; surrounded by a golden knurled ring, red enamels, inscribed “Per Aspera Ad Astra” (Through Hardships to the Stars) in golden lettering, and an additional outer golden knurled ring; the reverse with a central medallion of blue enamels, inscribed in gold with the royal monograph; suspended from very detailed arabesques, and a swivel golden royal crown, with a double ring suspension from its period original sash; measuring 76.65 mm (w) x 121.33 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension.
The Order of the Wendish Crown was jointly founded by Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and Grand Duke Frederick William of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, and was conferred upon citizens who rendered meritorious civil and military service to the Mecklenburg houses.
The order was conferred upon citizens of both Mecklenburg states. The order decorations awarded in each state featured the same form, but had different obverse inscriptions and reverse monograms.
The number of individuals admitted into the order was limited and each province was allowed to admit a set number of people. Mecklenburg-Schwerin was allowed to confer a much larger number of awards.
Only members of recognised Christian churches were allowed to receive the order.
The awards conferred for military merit featured crossed swords through the centre of the cross.
The Grand Cross was only awarded to members of the aristocracy, or to individuals with the title of excellency.
Comments
Sign in to comment and reply.
COMMUNITY
ACCOUNT
Scroll Top
