Brass cross pattée with rays between the arms on integral royal crown suspension; the face with a central medallion with the figure ‘16’ surmounted by the monogram ‘CX’ for King Christian X; the reverse plain; on original ribbon. Denmark’s faithful service decorations were reformed in 1854 and are awarded for eight years’ service and sixteen years’ service. Recipients of a sixteen-years’ award are required to return the eight-year award. King Christian X reigned from 14 May 1912 to 20 April 1947. An imposing figure, he is perhaps best remembered for remaining in German-occupied Denmark throughout World War II and, in particular, embodying the hope of eventual liberation by his unaccompanied daily rides on horseback through the streets of Copenhagen.
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