Der Rittmeister Militaria, LLC, Imperial German Merchandise, Page 8: Orders, Medals, and Decorations Nr 2: From the Grand Duchies, Duchies, Free States Etc. of Imperial Germany, Updated 11 May 2008. Contact us at: rittmeister@earthlink.net

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Anhalt

08-220 50-YEAR TRUE SERVICE MEDAL IN SILVER - ANHALT. This was a civil decoration for 50 years of true and faithful service to the state. The obverse of the decoration features the ruler of Anhalt’s crowned cypher. The reverse has "Fur funfzigjahrige Diensttreue" (For Fifty Years True Service). Obviously, since this was for fifty years of service, it was not a common decoration. It has a beautiful patina and comes with a wide green and white ribbon. This decoration was given from the period of 1864 to 1918. Judging from the look of the decoration and ribbon, I would say this particular example was issued in the 19th Century. $350.00 .

 

 

 

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08-296 MINIATURE OF THE FRIEDRICH CROSS - ANHALT. This is a miniature of the Friedrich Cross from the Duchy of Anhalt. This is the 2^nd version of this decoration. It re-creates every detail of its larger version. No ribbon is included for this. It is in excellent condition. $60.00. . .

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Baden

08-265 MILITARY KARL-FRIEDRICH SERVICE ORDER KNIGHTS CROSS 3^rd MODEL - BADEN. While I was able to bring back a number of excellent orders and decorations on this trip, none are more historically important than the Military Karl-Friedrich Service Order Knight’s Cross. This is the premiere military decoration for an officer from the Grand Duchy of Baden. This decoration is very similar in importance and award criteria to the Orden Pour le Mérite (PLM) from Prussia and the Military Max-Joseph Order from the Kingdom of Bavaria (which carried with it immediate elevation to knighthood). The Karl-Friedrich was of the same ilk. It recognized the bravest officers who were native sons of Baden. The Order was instituted in 1807, and the first model was awarded from 1807 to 1866. The second model was issued from 1866 until 1916. The third and final model was awarded from 1916 through 1918. We offer today a third model of this very exclusive decoration. Its primary difference is that it is made of silver gilt. The piece is silver hallmarked .900 on the ring, as is correct. [This same change was made in the PLM as gold became scarce later in the war, since it was needed to pay for the war effort]. My research shows that approximately 140 examples of this were awarded during WW I. One may wonder why this decoration is so much less expensive than a PLM. The answer is simple. The extremely high demand for the PLM (I am sure the mid 1960's movie "The Blue Max" has not hurt its reputation!) ensures that their market remains strong. This decoration is a "sleeper." Generally, it is the serious Orders and Decorations collector who will seek this one out. The small cross has white enameled arms. The decoration is trimmed in silver gilt. The center of the obverse features the Royal Cypher of Karl-Friedrich of Baden. The center exhibits red, gold, and white enamel. The reverse of the decoration has a griffin in its center. This same creature is seen on the wappen of all soldiers serving in Baden’s army. A green enameled wreath connects all the cross’s arms. A large, articulated, silver-gilt crown tops the decoration. A small piece of original ribbon completes the presentation. This very rare decoration comes around infrequently. $5,495.00 .

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08-185 MILITARY KARL-FRIEDRICH SERVICE ORDER 7^th MODEL IN SILVER - BADEN. The Military Karl Friedrich Service Order was first instituted in 1807. It was issued in gold and silver and represented the highest decoration awarded to enlisted men and NCO’s. In this respect it would have been similar to the Military Service Cross and Golden Military Service Cross from Prussia or the Gold and Silver Military Service Medals from Bavaria. Germany was very class conscious. There were separate military merit awards at the upper end for enlisted men and officers. While the Iron Cross 1^st and 2^nd Class and its many equivalents from the German states were awarded without regard for rank, the top awards were separate. Getting back to the Baden Military Karl-Friedrich Service Order, there were eight models of this award from the time that it was first awarded in 1807 until the end of WW I. The example that we offer today is the seventh of the eight models. It was awarded during the Franco Prussian War of 1870-71. The obverse of the decoration has a high relief griffin with a shield and sword standing on the barrel of a cannon amid several cannon balls. Engraved on the obverse is the legend "Fur Badens Ehre." {The 1915-1918 version of the decoration, which was Model 8, had Für, as opposed to the 1870-71 Model that had Fur). The reverse of the decoration has "Dem Tappfern." The name of the recipient "Bohler" has also been engraved. This man served as an NCO in the Baden artillery as a member of the 4th Heavy Battery.When these decorations were awarded, the custom was to add the mans name. This is really quite nice when you think about it, as it allows the collector to research the original owner! I might add that a pension also went along with this high award to the soldier who received it. This is a very rare decoration. Only 571 were awarded during the Franco-Prussian War. As a matter of information the 8^th Model, which was awarded from 1915-1918 during WW I, had a total award of 1,282 of this very high decoration. I have never had an opportunity to offer one of these before. When I first saw it, I must admit to a certain amount of excitement. The decoration, which has a small indention at about the 7 o’ clock area of the rim, has a yellow and red ribbon. This is not a decoration you will see offered every day. It represents a very high level of bravery that has been recognized in a soldier from Baden. $2,095.00

 

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08-406 FRIEDRICH II SILVER SERVICE MEDAL - BADEN. This is the Friedrich II Silver Service Medal from the Grand Duchy of Baden. The award was issued from 1907 through 1918, when the German empire and Germany’s other royal states all collapsed. It was awarded in both gold and silver classes. Until about 1916 it was awarded in silver (as is this example). From 1916 until the end of WW I, it was produced in a base metal to conserve the precious silver for other purposes. The decoration can be considered Baden’s Iron Cross 2nd Class equivalent. $95.00  

 

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08-407 FRIEDRICH II SILVER SERVICE MEDAL - BADEN. This is the Friedrich II Silver Service Medal from the Grand Duchy of Baden. The award was issued from 1907 through 1918, when the German empire and Germany’s other royal states all collapsed. It was awarded in both gold and silver classes. Until about 1916 it was awarded in silver. From 1916 until the end of WW I, it was produced in a base metal (as is this example) to conserve the precious silver for other purposes. The decoration can be considered Baden’s Iron Cross 2nd Class equivalent. $75.00  

 

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Braunschweig

 

08-399 1914 WAR SERVICE CROSS 1st CLASS - TWO-PIECE SCREWBACK - BRAUNSCHWEIG. Today we offer a fine example of the War Service Cross 1st Class two-piece screwback from the Duchy of Braunschweig. The example is vaulted. The decoration was the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class equivalent from Braunschweig. It was given not only to native sons of Braunschweig, but to men from other German states. It is finely made and bronze-toned. It is similar in size to the 1914 Iron Cross 1st Class. It features a crown at the top, "EA" (for Ernst August, the Duke of Braunschweig and Kaiser Wilhelm II’s son-in-law). The detail to the decoration’s obverse is clear and crisp. On the reverse we see a raybacked (similar to the design seen on high-quality Prussian and Bavarian flight badges) backing plate, measuring 1 1/2" in diameter. The decoration is in very fine condition. It is only the second screwback of its kind that I have offered. $725.00DW

 

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08-380 WAR SERVICE CROSS 1st CLASS - BRAUNSCHWEIG. This is the War Service Cross 1st Class from the Duchy of Braunschweig. It is the Iron Cross 1st Class equivalent from this state. The "EA" appearing on the decoration’s obverse is for Duke (Herzog) Ernst August, Kaiser Wilhelm II’s son-in-law who was married to the Kaiser's only daughter Viktoria Luise. The decoration is slightly-vaulted. It is in prime condition. $295.00DW

 

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Bremen

 

08-345 HANSEATIC CROSS - BREMEN. Three Hanseatic States offered a decoration during WW I that was the equivalent of the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class. They were Hamburg, Bremen, and Lübeck. This example comes from Bremen. The enamel on this example is in first class condition. It comes with a short length of original ribbon. $275.00 

 

 

 

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Hamburg

 

08-319 HAMBURG HANSEATIC CROSS IN ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CARTON. The Hanseatic Cross came in three varieties, for Hamburg, Lubeck and Bremen. Hamburg was the largest of the three Free States, so these are more easily found than examples from Lubeck and Bremen. This piece has very fine enamel, with very little toning to the silvered portions of the decoration. A very short piece of ribbon is attached to the decoration. The decoration is housed in its original presentation carton, which features Hamburg’s Coat-of-Arms on the outer lid. One side of the upper lid is missing. This will be shown in the attached photos. $175.00. .

 

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Hannover

Hesse-Darmstadt

 

08-389 BREAST STAR OF THE LUDWIG’S ORDER - HESSEN-DARMSTADT. The Grand Duchy of Hessen-Darmstadt was among the most important states in Imperial Germany. She boasted a long and proud military tradition. She also had a smaller state, Hessen-Kassel, which was absorbed into Prussia (as were Hannover and Braunschweig) at the end of the German Wars of Unification against Austria and several other German states (Württemberg, Saxony, and Bavaria). [As an interesting side point, Hessen troops served the British in the American Revolution. One of their best-known engagements during the American Revolution was when General George Washington led his troops across the Delaware River at night, then, in a dawn attack on Christmas morning, defeated the Germans at Trenton, totally surprising the enemy. Of course it was not overly difficult for King George III of England to attract German troops, as he was also the King of Hannover. England depended heavily on German troops (both infantry and cavalry) throughout the reign of George III, which included the Napoleonic Wars. German troops were among the best that Wellington commanded in Spain, Portugal, and, ultimately, at Waterloo]. Hesse-Darmstadt’s Ludwig’s Order was a complete family of orders and decorations, which included a Collar, Grand Cross, Commander’s Cross, Honor Cross, and a 1^st and 2^nd Class Knight’s Cross. At certain levels the orders and decorations were awarded with swords and diamonds. Today we are offering a Breast Star of the Ludwig’s Order. The silver-toned star measures 3 1/2" x 3 1/2." In the star’s center is a green enamel. Lettered in gold on the black enamel are the words "Gott. Ehre. Vater: Land." On the reverse is a wonderful swollen pin. The pin is pressed in (this allowed it to settle more easily onto a tunic once the pin was passed through a tunic’s sewn-in loops), which is a clear sign that it was worn. Underneath the pin is "Schnitzspahn," which was a well-known jeweler (I am not certain if they were the Grand Duke’s house jewelers). "Darmstadt," the capital of Hesse-Darmstadt is also stamped under the pin. The Breast Star is in excellent condition, with no enamel problems. $3,995.00  

 

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08-369 GENERAL HONOR DECORATION - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION PACKET - HESSE-DARMSTADT. This is the General Honor Decoration from the Grand Duchy of Hesse-Darmstadt. This is their equivalent of the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class. The decoration’s obverse features a profile of the Grand Duke of Hesse-Darmstadt, Ernst Ludwig. The reverse displays "Für Tapferkeit." The decoration is 1 1/4" in diameter and made of silver. It has the correct red and light blue ribbon. The decoration is stored in its original paper presentation packet. This is the first of these that I have encountered. $250.00

 

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08-355 GENERAL HONOR DECORATION - HESSE-DARMSTADT. This is the General Honor Decoration from the Grand Duchy of Hesse-Darmstadt. This is their equivalent of the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class. The decoration’s obverse displays a profile of the Grand Duke of Hesse-Darmstadt, Ernst Ludwig. On the reverse we see "Fur Treue Arbeit." The decoration is 1 1/4" in diameter. It is made of silver. It displays the correct red and light-blue ribbon. $165.00 

 

 

 

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08-357 GENERAL HONOR DECORATION - HESSE-DARMSTADT. This is the General Honor Decoration from the Grand Duchy of Hesse-Darmstadt. It is their equivalent of the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class. The decoration’s obverse displays a profile of the Grand Duke of Hesse-Darmstadt, Ernst Ludwig. On the reverse we see "Fur Tapferkeit." This decoration is 1 1/4" in diameter. It is made of silver. It displays the correct red and light-blue ribbon. $165.00

 

 

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Hessen-Kassel

08-227 HOUSE ORDER OF THE GOLDEN LION COMMANDER'S BREAST STAR - HESSEN-KASSEL. We have a most unusual offering this week. It is not exactly as it may appear from a quick glance at the enclosed photographs. What we have is the House Order of the Golden Lion Commander’s Breast Star from Hessen-Kassel. While its nature as a Breast Star makes it scarce enough, this piece is a bullion, embroidered variation of the Breast Star! It is referred to in Germany as a "Tinsel Star." The Tinsel Stars were in use long before the metal Breast Stars with which we are more familiar and were sewn to the tunic as opposed to the use of a pinback arrangement for later Breast Stars. They were more common in the 18^th and 19^th Centuries. This example dates from the 1820's to the 1830's. It is one of the earliest orders that we have ever offered. For being 180-190 years old, this Breast Star is in incredible condition. The lion in the center and the colors throughout are quite vibrant. It shows little wear, just gentle age and toning. On the reverse of the Star in faded ink is an inscription that I cannot make out. Perhaps sharper eyes than mine will be able to help out. I was thrilled to get this from a very knowledgeable German collector. Now I am excited to share it with you. This piece would make a wonderful addition to any Orders and Decorations collection. It would make an interesting counterpoint to the more conventional Breast Stars. This is a true gem and quite rare. $3,895.00

 

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Hohenzollern

05-915 HOHENZOLLERN KNIGHTS CROSS. This is a seldom-seen example of the Hohenzollern Knight’s Cross in silver. This is the peacetime example because there are no swords attached through the center. This example is different in a number of ways from the more traditional Knight’s Cross with Swords of the Hohenzollern House Order. First, it is silver-toned as opposed to silver-gilt. Second, the arms of this decoration are trimmed in black enamel instead of solid enamel. Both examples have enamel centers. This example is also hallmarked on the bottom arm for Wagner. A black and white war ribbon is included. I have not been able to determine if this is the correct type of ribbon for this decoration. The decoration is in very fine condition. $1,795.00.

 

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Lippe-Detmold

08-294 KRIEGSVERDIENSTKREUZ AM BAND FÜR NICHTKÄMPFER - LIPPE-DETMOLD. This is the Iron Cross 2^nd Class for Non Combatants from Lippe-Detmold. The cross is set up as one-place medal bar with a parade-wrapped ribbon. It has no backing. This is a very pleasing example. $195.00. . .

 

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08-275 WAR SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS NON COMBATANTS- LIPPE-DETMOLD. This is the 2^nd Class Non Combatants version of the War Service Cross 2^nd Class from Lippe-Detmold. The colors of the ribbon are reversed from the combatant’s version to differentiate the difference. This is a very fine example. $185.00 . . .

 

 

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08-337 WAR SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS - LIPPE DETMOLD. This is the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class equivalent from Lippe-Detmold. It has a fine gilt finish. The ribbon, which is attached, is correct for general style and color. It is INCORRECT, however, in width. In all likelihood, it originally came from a miniature. $95.00 AA

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Mecklenburg-Schwerin

08-297 1870 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 1^st CLASS - MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. This is the Iron Cross 1^st Class equivalent (Military Service Cross 1^st Class) from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. This example was awarded for action in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. Interestingly, variations exist of the Military Service Cross in 1^st and/or 2^nd Class from 1848, 1849, 1859, 1864, 1866, 1870, 1877, 1900, and with no date! As this was a much smaller state than Prussia, very few of these were awarded. The decoration is very slightly vaulted. This example is an interesting variation because it has no clasp on the reverse with which to hold the pin! None was ever added to the decoration, so this is not a matter of it having broken off. The finish of the decoration is a burnished bronze tone. This indicates a great deal of age and makes for a very handsome patina. It is a very difficult decoration to acquire, in excellent condition. $3,495.00 . .

 

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08-388 XJB 1914 WAR SERVICE CROSS 1^st CLASS MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. This is a consignment item. It is the 1914 War Service Cross 1^st Class from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. It is the equivalent to the 1914 Iron Cross 1^st Class. It is slightly vaulted and in very fine condition on the obverse. The reverse sports a swollen pin. No hallmarking for the manufacturer is present. A repair has been made to the catch. It evidently broke off at one point, and was re-soldered. $295.00DW

 

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08-336 1900 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS - MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. This is the 1900 Military Service Cross 2^nd Class from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Mecklenburg-Schwerin offered more equivalents for the Iron Cross 2^nd Class than Prussia ever did. In the case of Prussia, the Iron Cross was awarded in 1813, 1870, and 1914. With Mecklenburg-Schwerin, the Military Service Cross 2^nd Class was awarded in 1848, 1849, 1859, 1864, 1866, 1870, 1877, 1900, and 1914. They even awarded a variation between 1900 and 1914 that had NO date! The 1900 variation was awarded for service during China’s Boxer Rebellion in 1900/1901. Very few of these were actually awarded, since the number of troops involved was so small. This example is in excellent condition, with a fine ribbon. $450.00

 

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08-371 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS (OEK 1353) -MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. If one looks in the series of books on Imperial German Decorations by Jorg Nimmergut (the acknowledged authority on Imperial German and Third Reich era decorations) the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin has three variations of the Military Service Cross 2^nd Class. They are cataloged as OEK 1352, OEK 1353, and OEK 1354. OEK 1352 is the most commonly seen variety. It generally sells for $100.00 or under. OEK 1353 is very similar to OEK 1352. Today we are offering an example of OEK 1352 in excellent condition. It features a fine gilt finish, and a mint red, yellow, and blue ribbon. $150.00AA

 

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08-372 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS (OEK 1354) - MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. If one looks in the series of books on Imperial German Decorations by Jorg Nimmergut (the acknowledged authority on Imperial German and Third Reich era decorations) the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin has three variations of the Military Service Cross 2^nd Class. They are cataloged as OEK 1352, OEK 1353, and OEK 1354. OEK 1352 is the most commonly seen variety. It generally sells for $100.00 or under. OEK 1354 is very similar to OEK 1352. Today we offer an example of OEK 1352 in excellent condition. If you look on the reverse, you will see that this variety uses "Krieg" instead of "Kriege." It features a fine gilt finish and a mint red, yellow, and blue ribbon. $150.00 

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08-395 1914 MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN WAR SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS FOR NON COMBATANTS. This is the War Service Cross 2^nd Class for Non Combatants from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Like all Iron Cross 2^nd Class equivalents, these were awarded in far fewer numbers, and so are much harder-to-find. Also, like the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class, the dominant colors of its ribbon are reversed. This gives the cross a very different look from a 1^st Class award. $150.00  

 

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08-401 1914 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS - MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. This is the 1914 Military Service Cross 2^nd Class from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. It is this Grand Duchy’s EK 2 equivalent. Interestingly, it was first awarded in 1848. It then was awarded in 1^st and/or 2^nd Class for conflicts in 1848, 1849, 1859, 1864, 1866, 1870, 1900, and 1914. It was even awarded with no date! It comes with the correct red, blue, and yellow ribbon for a combatant. $95.00  

 

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08-364 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 1^st CLASS - TWENTY-ONE YEARS LONG SERVICE - MECKLENBURG-SCHWERIN. This is the 1^st Class Long Service Award for Twenty-one Years of Service. The example is for enlisted man and NCO’s from the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. The decoration is a cross with a gilt finish to its arms that has diminished with age. It has a brighter gilt-center. The cross’s obverse features the Grand Duke’s crowned cypher. The decoration’s reverse displays twenty-one in Roman numerals, which was quite common on German long-service awards. This particular decoration was awarded from 1868 to 1913. It is in very fine condition, with a magenta, blue, and yellow ribbon. $160.00

 

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Mecklenburg-Streilitz

Nassau

08-223 22 YEARS LONG SERVICE DECORATION - NASSAU. This decoration for 22 years long and true service comes from the Duchy of Nassau. It was given to NCO's and enlisted men. This very small state gave a very limited number of decorations. This decoration was first issued beginning in 1834 and continued through 1864. Like Hannover, Nassau was absorbed in 1866. Its independence was lost when it was absorbed by Prussia during the war with Austria. This decoration is a minimum of 135 years old. Very few of them were ever awarded. An original wide, light blue ribbon accompanies this decoration. For its age, the decoration and ribbon are in excellent condition. This represents the very first decoration that we have ever offered from Nassau. $525.00

 

 

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Oldenburg

05-1164 GRAND CROSS WITH SWORDS ON THE RING OF THE HOUSE AND SERVICE ORDER HERZOG PETER FRIEDRICH LUDWIG - OLDENBURG. The Grand Cross with Swords on the Ring of the House and Service Order Herzog Peter Friedrich Ludwig was one of the highest awards that could be given by the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. This relatively small Grand Duchy fielded a single infantry and cavalry regiment along with one artillery battalion. The decoration was awarded as a sash. This very rare decoration was only awarded TWENTY-ONE times from 1856 to 1918. It measures 4" x 2 1/4." Made of silver-gilt, it comes complete with a massive crown and a smaller set of crossed swords that are located on the ring. Oldenburgers were known for producing some of the finest enamel work among Imperial Germany’s decoration makers. That said, some enamel damage shows on the decoration’s reverse in two places with a crude repair to the center. Normally, I am not inclined to purchase an order with damaged enamel. However, since the decoration is SO rare, I bought it. I may never see another one, regardless of the condition. This is, without question, the rarest decoration we have ever offered in terms of the number that were awarded. Consider that the Pour le Mérite had nearly seven hundred awards during WW I alone, then you get an inkling of how rare a bird we are offering today. Even if you do not normally collect orders and decorations, have a look at this one. Few of these exist outside a museum. The correct sash, which is 3 7/8" wide, is included. $5,495.00 . . .

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08-112 HONOR CROSS 2nd CLASS - OLDENBURG. This is a very fine example of the Honor Cross 2nd Class from the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. This example is made of silver. It comes complete with an original red and blue ribbon. $350.00. . .

 

 

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05-724 HONOR CROSS 3^rd CLASS IN ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE - OLDENBURG. A seldom seen decoration from Oldenburg. It is a black steel decoration similar in some ways to the Oldenburg Friedrich August Cross 1^st and 2^nd Class. This example not having swords would be from before the Great War. It comes in a very fine red leatherette presentation case similar in color and design to the Prussian Red Eagle case. The decoration is completed with a wide red and blue ribbon. A very nice presentation. $425.00

 

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08-87 FRIEDRICH AUGUST CROSS 1^st CLASS PRINZENGROßE - OLDENBURG. This was another first-time find on this trip. Frankly, I had never even heard of a Prinzengroße for the FA Cross 1st Class, so I was quite surprised when this came to light. It is about 2/3's to 3/4's the size of a full-sized piece. The only other Prinzengroße Iron Cross 1st Class equivalent that I had come across previously was a Braunschweig War Service Cross 1st Class. The quality and condition of this piece is quite striking. An important addition to any decoration collection. $550.00

 

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08-251 FRIEDRICH AUGUST CROSS 1^st CLASS - OLDENBURG. The Friedrich August Cross 1^st Class comes from the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. It is the Iron Cross 1^st Class equivalent from this state. The decoration is black painted over brass. The obverse is missing a bit of paint at the high point of the "FA ." We see a fine swollen pin on the reverse. This is a wonderful example in very fine condition. $260.00 .

 

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08-307 FRIEDRICH AUGUST CROSS 1^st CLASS - OLDENBURG. The Friedrich August Cross 1^st Class was the Iron Cross 1^st Class equivalent from the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. The obverse of the cross features a crown, "FA", and the date 1914. The paint is generally good on this example with some wear to the high points. The reverse has a swollen pin. No hallmarking shows for a manufacturer. $275.00 . . .

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08-326 FRIEDRICH-AUGUST CROSS 2^nd CLASS WITH "VOR DEM FEINDE" SPANGE - COMBATANT’S VERSION - OLDENBURG. This is the Friedrich-August Cross 2^nd Class for Combatants with the "Vor dem Feinde" spange. The cross is black. It is suspended on a combatant’s ribbon, which features a single wide, blue, stripe with two narrow, red, stripes. Attached to the ribbon is the "Vor dem Feinde" spange, which was awarded for extra distinction at the front. This is a good example of an often hard-to-find decoration. $125.00 

 

 

 

 

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08-381 FRIEDRICH AUGUST CROSS 2^nd CLASS - OLDENBURG. This is the Friedrich August Cross 2^nd Class from the Grand Duchy of Oldenburg. It is black in color. It comes on a short length of red and blue ribbon. It is the Combatant’s version of this 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class equivalent. $75.00

 

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Reuss

08-235 PRINCELY HONOR CROSS 4^th CLASS WITH SWORDS - IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE - REUSS. This is the Princely Honor Cross 4^th Class with Swords from Reuss. The obverse of this decoration bears the royal cypher of the Prince of Reuss. The legend "For Service" appears on the reverse. A pair of crossed swords is attached to a loop where the correct original black, red, and yellow ribbon is attached as well. This decoration is housed in a very small and tidy presentation case. This piece is in very pleasing condition. It shows just a touch of honest wear. $295.00 .

 

 

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Saxe-Altenburg

08-240 COMMEMORATIVE MEDAL FOR THE 1849 CAMPAIGN - SAXE-ALTENBURG. This a commemorative medal that was awarded to veterans from Saxe-Altenburg for the campaign of 1849. This decoration was awarded in 1874 (twenty-five years after the campaign). It was only awarded six hundred fifty-four times, so it is very scarce decoration. The obverse of the decoration, which is bronze-toned, has the royal cypher for the Duke of Saxe-Altenburg, Ernst I. The reverse of the decoration has the date, "1849." The decoration is accompanied by a green and white ribbon. It is in very fine condition. $395.00. .

 

 

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08-143 DUKE ERNST II GOLDEN MEDAL - SAXE-ALTENBURG. This circular medal is about the size of a U.S. half dollar. It has a golden finish, but is actually silver gilt. This really gorgeous medal was issued from 1908 to 1918. Ernst II assumed the throne in 1908 upon the death of his father Duke Ernst I. The obverse has a fine profile of Ernst II in profile along with the legend "Ernst II Duke of Saxe-Altenburg." The reverse has the coat-of-arms and the motto, in Latin, for the duchy. This decoration was a civil award and came in two grades, with and without crown. Relatively few were awarded. This simply beautiful example comes with the correct ribbon for the duchy. $450.00.

 

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08-210 BRAVERY MEDAL - SAXE - ALTENBURG. This is the bravery medal from the Duchy of Saxe-Altenburg. This is the 1^st model, which was awarded during war time. It is made from bronze as opposed to the post war version, which is made from zinc. One side bears the coat of arms of Saxe-Altenburg with the date 1914. The other side bears the Royal Cypher of the Duke Ernst II. It comes complete with a short length of green and white ribbon. It is a prime example, in excellent condition. $350.00

 

 

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08-221 ERNST II MEDAL IN SILVER - SAXE-ALTENBURG. This is the Ernst II Medal in Silver. The decoration is of the highest quality and is made of silver as evidenced by the gorgeous patina which has developed over many decades. This civil decoration shows Duke (Herzog) Ernst II in profile, along with his identification and that of Saxe-Altenburg. The reverse has the royal cypher of Ernst II. The decoration is in very fine condition. $265.00

 

 

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Saxe-Coburg-Gotha

08-255 CARL EDUARD SILVER DUCAL MEDAL WITH 1914-1917 CLASP WITH SWORDS - SAXE-COBURG-GOTHA. This is a very attractive example of the Carl Eduard Silver Ducal Medal with the 1914-1917 clasp. The decoration has a profile view of Carl Eduard, the Duke of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha. This military decoration was awarded with a variety of clasps, which had different dates. This clasp is for the period of 1914-1917. It also displays crossed swords. The decoration comes on the correct magenta and green ribbon. It is a pleasing mid or late war example. $475.00

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Saxe-Ernestine

Saxe-Meinigen

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08-314 WAR SERVICE DECORATION 1914/15 - SAXE-MEININGEN. This is the War Service Decoration from Saxe-Meiningen. This would be the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class equivalent from this state. The date on this decoration is 1914/15. It is a large, circular, bronze-toned medal. The ribbon from Saxe-Meiningen. was one of the most distinctive in the Empire. It consisted of a wide vertical black stripe, two narrower vertical yellow stripes, and many green squares on the edges on either side. This decoration and the original ribbon are in very fine shape. This is a decoration we do not come across very often. $195.00 . . .

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08-315 WAR MERIT BADGE WITH CROWN - SAXE-MEININGEN. This is the War Merit Badge with Crown from the Duchy of Saxe-Meiningen. It is circular shaped with a cypher "B" on the obverse. On the reverse it has the coat of arms for Saxony and the dates 1914-15. It comes on a short piece of green, yellow, and black ribbon. $325.00 DS

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08-226 WAR SERVICE DECORATION 1914/15 - SAXE-MEININGEN. This is the War Service Decoration from Saxe-Meiningen. This would be the 1914 Iron Cross 2^nd Class equivalent from this state. The date on this decoration is 1914/15. It is a large, circular, bronze-toned medal. The ribbon from Saxe-Meiningen. was one of the most distinctive in the Empire. It consisted of a wide vertical black stripe, two narrower vertical yellow stripes, and many green squares on the edges on either side. This decoration and the original ribbon are in very fine shape. This is a decoration we do not come across very often. $195.00.DS

 

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Saxe-Weimar

08-403 SILVER SERVICE MEDAL - SPANGE AND CROSSED SWORDS - SAXE-WEIMAR. This is the Silver Service Medal with Crossed Swords on the Spange from the Grand Duchy of Saxe-Weimar. The circular medal measures 1 3/4" in diameter and is X" thick. The obverse features a profile of the Grand Duke of Saxe-Weimar, Wilhelm Ernst. The medal’s reverse declares "Dem Verdienste 1914." Attached to the decoration is a yellow, green, and black ribbon. On the ribbon is the Spange with Crossed Swords. The decoration is in very fine condition. It would make an important addition to any Imperial German medal collection. $350.00  

08-350 SILVER GENERAL HONOR DECORATION WITH CLASP AND SWORDS - SAXE-WEIMAR. This is the General Honor Decoration with Clasp and Swords in silver from the Grand Duchy of Saxe-Weimar. The decoration’s obverse has a high-relief profile of the Grand Duke Wilhelm Ernst. The decoration’s reverse features "Dem Verdienst 1914." The clasp with swords is on the correct ribbon for Saxe-Weimar. The decoration is an early-war example made from .990 silver, while the clasp is made of .800 silver. $395.00

 

08-236 CARL ALEXANDER SILVER SERVICE MERIT MEDAL WITH CLASP AND SWORDS - SAXE-WEIMAR. This is a very rare decoration that we have never before been able to offer. The Grand Duchy of Saxe-Weimar was one of the several Saxon duchies situated around the Kingdom of Saxony. The decoration was issued from 1853 to 1901. This is one of the rarer versions that was awarded in 1870 during the Franco-Prussian War. The obverse of the decoration has a high relief profile of the Grand Duke Carl Alexander. It also features a clasp with swords that is attached to the ribbon. On the reverse we see "For Service 1870." Attached to the decoration is the original ribbon. I would like to point out that it has seen a great deal of service and use since it was awarded 130+ years ago. For your convenience I will also enclose a correct replacement ribbon, which you may use as you wish. This is a really DIFFICULT decoration to find. I was quite surprised when it was offered to me. $975.00 . .

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08-145 SILVER SERVICE CROSS OF THE WHITE FALCON - SAXE WEIMAR. This cross is a part of the White Falcon family of decorations from the Duchy of Saxe-Weimar. It is actually the lowest level of the White Falcon awards. It is a silver cross that comes complete with a correct red ribbon. $275.00

 

 

 

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Schaumburg-Lippe

08-89 GOLDEN SERVICE CROSS SCHAUMBURG-LIPPE. This is another first timer for us. This is the Golden Service Cross, which was issued from 1869-1916 by Schaumburg-Lippe. This cross was the highest level of the Service Cross that was issued and is made of GOLD. The obverse has the Royal Cypher of Schaumburg-Lippe. The reverse has the legend "For True Service." A short length of red and gold ribbon is included. A very scarce decoration. $1,095.00...

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08-352 TRUE SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS - ORIGINAL PRESENTATION CASE - SCHAUMBURG-LIPPE. This is the True Service Cross 2^nd Class from the Principality of Schaumburg-Lippe. This is the Iron Cross 2^nd Class equivalent from this small principality. The cross is gilt-toned and one-sided. (The reverse displays nothing whatsoever). A crowned cypher for the prince appears on the obverse, along with the date 1914 and the phrase "Für Treue Dienste." The presentation case is black leatherette and measures 3 1/2" x 2 1/4." The upper half’s inner lid is lined in blue silk. The lower half is lined with black velvet. At the case’s top is a small compartment where the ribbon is housed. The ribbon displays three narrow white bands and two wider blue bands. I seldom come upon these decorations, and rarely when cased. $395.00

 

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08-404 TRUE SERVICE CROSS (2nd CLASS) - SCHAUMBURG-LIPPE. This is the Cross for True Service from the Principality of Schaumburg-Lippe. It is the 2nd Class award, which was the 1914 Iron Cross 2nd Class equivalent. The decoration is a one-sided, gilt cross, mounted on a blue and white ribbon. It was a very small principality. The decoration is uncommon, at best. $195.00  

 

 

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Waldeck-Pyrmont

08-335 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 3^rd CLASS - WALDECK und PYRMONT. This is the Military Service Cross 3^rd Class from the Principality of Waldeck. This award was presented 111 times during the period of 1878 to 1896. The limited number of awards is explained in part by the principality’s small size. For example, they fielded only a single battalion (Battalion Nr 3) in Prussia’s Infantrie-Regiment von Wittich (3. Kurhessisches) Nr 83. The regiment was raised in 1813. The Waldeck Battalion was garrisoned at Arlosen. The decoration is a small silver cross, measuring 1 5/8" x 1 ½." In the decoration’s heart is a red enamel center featuring the ruler of Waldeck und Pyrmont’s silver cypher. The cross’s reverse says "Für Verdienst." The original and correct red, black, and yellow ribbon is attached. It is in very fine condition. $1,695.00

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08-205 MILITARY SERVICE CROSS 3^rd CLASS - WALDECK-PYRMONT. The Military Service Cross 3^rd Class is not often seen, as Waldeck is a fairly small state. This is a pure military decoration. It comes complete with the correct and original ribbon. Overall, it is in very fine condition. $1,595.00

 

 

 

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08-203 GOLDEN MERIT MEDAL - WALDECK. The Golden Merit Medal comes from Waldeck. It was issued during the period from 1899-1915. It is a circular-shaped medal that is silver gilt. It is marked .990 for silver content on the edge. This is a very scarce decoration. It was only awarded 267 times. It comes with the correct red, black and yellow ribbon for Waldeck.

$650.00AA

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12-389 MATTED PAGE FROM ORDEN DER AUSSERDEUTSCHE STAATEN EUROPAS PLATE Nr 2. Prior to the beginning of WW I, a series of high quality pamphlets were printed in Germany displaying the orders and decorations of Imperial Germany and Europe. Many variations of these were produced, and I have offered several of them in the past. When I mentioned that these were high-quality, I failed to mention that they were in FULL COLOR. The example we are offering today describes in crystal clear detail many of the top awards from the various nations of Europe (some were allied to Germany in WW I and some were bitter enemies). It covers examples from Great Britain, France, Greece, Spain. etc. This has been matted and is ready for display or framing. The matte measures 17 3/8" x 13 ½," while the image within measures 11" x 8 5/8." $95.00. . .

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05-1268 XSP FULL COLOR POSTERS FROM "THE IRON TIME" & "PRUSSIAN BLUE." We have advised you over the years about the very important militaria reference books written by Stephen Thomas Previtera. His first effort was "The Iron Time," published in 1999. The topic of the Iron Cross was an area that had not been dealt with properly, at least, not in the English language. When Stephen published this book, I was astounded by its superb quality and amazing breadth. Stephen is a graphic artist by trade, which is revealed in its contents’ physical beauty. The book contains more than 1,000 photographs, most of them in color. I was also attracted to his historical reporting. Now by education (not by trade), I am a historian. I found Stephen’s writing style very enjoyable, with a fine sense of whimsy and humor. His excellent book makes a handsome primer for the student of German history. In his narrative one discovers what led to the Iron Cross’s establishment in 1813, what came after, and its further history on into 1870, 1914, 1939, and 1957. [ Let me add that "The Iron Time" has long been out of print. It has commanded up to $1,000 on the after-market. Stephen has just released a second edition of "The Iron Time," with some additional information that his research has unearthed. So, if you do not own a copy, NOW is your time to buy this stupendous resource]!  Following YEARS of research, Stephen released "Prussian Blue" in 2006. If you thought "The Iron Time" was great, "Prussian Blue" is easily its equal and more! "Prussian Blue" is the creation story and nearly 200-hundred-year history of the coveted Orden Pour le Mérite (PLM or "Blue Max"). The PLM was the most legendary, sought-after Prussian/German decoration. King Friedrich the Great of Prussia was its founder. Later, Kaiser Wilhelm II was the final German monarch to bestow the decoration. All of the wonderful aspects present in "The Iron Time" are repeated in "Prussian Blue." This book is still on the market. If you have not purchased one of these yet, do NOT delay. They are in short supply. [If you are not prompt, you may have to wait for another five years until Stephen does a second edition]!  With this background in mind, let us explore today’s offerings. Stephen has now produced some luscious posters featuring many of the important examples seen in his two books. He is currently offering a poster of Iron Crosses and a poster of PLM’s. Each measures 18" x 24," and is produced on acid-free stock. They would be perfect framed in any collector’s library or collecting room. The PLM’s and Iron Crosses are produced at FULL SIZE.  Each of these beautifully-produced posters is offered for $39.95. The shipping for domestic orders is $7.00. You may order two posters at the same shipping price. Shipping for international orders is $17.00. Again, two posters can go for the same shipping price. You may order through us. We will arrange for shipping directly to you from Stephen. (This price of $39.95 is exactly the same as you pay going directly through Stephen -- as is the shipping. We are offering this as a service to get these out to collectors). Order now. You will not be disappointed!  

 

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12-565 VERNON’S COLLECTOR’S GUIDE TO ORDERS, MEDALS, AND DECORATIONS by SYDNEY B. VERNON. This book written by Sydney B. Vernon is a fine guide for the identification of orders and decorations from Germany and other nations. It has some valuations in it, HOWEVER, please remember that you are looking at a book that was published seventeen years ago in 1990! $10.00  

 

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08-361 MILITARY RED CROSS SERVICE CROSS - HESSE-DARMSTADT. This is an interesting decoration that comes from the Grand Duchy of Hesse-Darmstadt. It is the Military Red Cross Service Cross. It was awarded to soldiers who were serving in a Red Cross capacity. It is an interestingly-shaped cross, of a type rarely seen among German decorations. The cross is gilt-toned and on the obverse we see "Für Pflege der Soldaten( For Nursing Soldiers)" and 1914. On the reverse it reads "Den 25 ten August 1870(The 25^th August 1870)," when the award was established. It comes attached to a red and gold ribbon, and is in very fine condition. $125.00 

 

 

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08-409 SERVICE CROSS 2^nd CLASS WITH OAK LEAVES - WALDECK. This is the Service Cross 2^nd Class with Oak Leaves from the Principality of Waldeck. It is a rare decoration from a very small state. The decoration was awarded in several classes. The cross measures 2" x 2." It has white enamel arms. A black enamel sunburst, with a red enamel cross on a white enamel background, appears in the obverse’s center. The reverse repeats the white enameled arms, with a center proclaiming, "Für Dienst." A large jump ring has the oak leaves attached to it. The decoration is made of GOLD. It is in first-rate condition, with no enamel damage. The decoration was worn around the neck. No ribbon is present. $2,495.00 JG

 

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