Miniature Grand Cross (Military Division, 1892-1970)

CATEGORY: Miniature

SKU: 01.NLD.0103.201.01.M.000

Estimated market value:

$200 USD

  • Img 021.jpg55788d259ffcc1

Estimated market value:

$200 USD

Attributes

  • Country
    Netherlands
  • Size
    14x25mm
  • Remarks
    This version is composed of gold and enamel. There is a stamp on the ring, but it remains unidentified.

History


The Order of Orange-Nassau was established by Queen Emma in the name of her daughter, Queen Wilhelmina, in 1892. It was considered necessary to establish another order following the discontinuation of the Order of the Oak Crown and the Order of the Golden Lion of Nassau in the Netherlands. It is currently the most widely conferred order in the Netherlands. The reigning Dutch monarch is the Grand Master of the Order.

The Order is conferred upon Dutch citizens and foreigners in recognition of meritorious service to Dutch society. During the Second World War, it was conferred upon Dutch and Allied military personnel for participation in the liberation of the Netherlands and Dutch colonies.

The Order is conferred in a Civil Division and Military Division. The Military Division is awarded to military personnel, and not in recognition of military merit, although this is most often the case. The decorations of the Military Division feature crossed swords. All decorations are meant to be returned to the state following the death of a member.

The Grand Cross features an obverse inscription that translates to, "I Shall Maintain," and a reverse inscription that translates to "God Be With Us." The reverse also features the royal monogram of Queen Wilhelmina. It is worn on a sash that is 101mm wide for men and 68mm wide for women.

There are at least two versions of the Grand Cross that differ in the spelling of the reverse inscription. Until about 1970, the reverse inscription featured the spelling “Zy,” while versions made after this date feature “Zij.” There may be additional versions that differ in size, composition, or manufacturer.

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