Braunschweig, Duchy. A Rare Order of Henry the Lion, Grand Cross Breast Star, by Friedrich Siebrecht

(Orden Heinrichs des Löwen, Bruststern zum Großkreuz). Instituted 25 April 1834 by Duke Wilhelm. (1834-1918 issue). Constructed of silver with gilt and multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of an eight-pointed radiant starburst, overlaid by a Maltese Cross with blue enameled arms completing in ball finials, with a red enameled centrepiece overlaid by a ribbed silver medallion defaced by a gilt monogram of Duke Wilhelm, circumscribed by by an inscription of “IMMOTA FIDES” (“UNSWERVING FAITHFULNESS”) an a cluster of laurel leaves, the reverse with four visible rivets securing the obverse applique in position, with a barrel hinge and narrow vertical pinback meeting a rounded catch, the reverse maker marked “F. SIEBRECHT, HOFJUWELIER, BRAUNSCHEIG” for court jeweller Friedrich Siebrecht, measuring 87.55 mm (w) x 88.01 mm (h), weighing 77.6 grams, a striking and rare example demonstrating exceptional quality of construction, in extremely fine condition.