Bavaria, Kingdom. A Superb Military Order Of Max Joseph, Breast Star, c.1840

 (Militär-Max-Joseph-Orden). 1806-1922. A superb Breast Star, in silver, center appliqué in Gold, silver and enamels, 83.05mm(w) x 83.0mm(h), with double retaining pin on reverse, unmarked, circa 1840, of superb quality manufacture, in slightly worn condition, no damages to enamels, very desirable and very rare star. 

Footnote: The Military Order of Max Joseph (German: Militär-Max-Joseph-Orden) was the highest purely military order of the Kingdom of Bavaria, founded on January 1 1806 by Maximilian I Joseph of Bavaria, the first king of Bavaria. The order came in three classes: Grand Cross, Commander’s Cross, and Knight; individuals who won the Order and were not already members of the nobility were ennobled and would add the title of "Ritter von" to their family name. The Order was seldom awarded; very scarce award held in very high esteem.