Gilt bronze cross pattée with stippled panels to the arms, with laterally pierced loop for ribbon suspension; the face with a circular central medallion bearing the Prussian crown within a deep blue enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘GOTT MIT UNS’ (God with us), gilt arabesques below; the reverse with a circular central medallion bearing the cipher ‘WR’ for King Wilhelm I within a deep blue enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘Den 18 October 1861’ (date of the foundation of the Order); diameter 43.76mm (1.72 inches); on replaced correct ribbon. The Order was founded by King Wilhelm I on 18 October 1861 and awarded to officers and civilians of equivalent rank for distinguished service. A superb example.
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