Prussia, Kingdom. An Order of the Crown, III Class Cross in Gold with Case, by Gebrüder Friedländer

(Königlicher Kronen-Orden Kreuz III. Klasse mit Etui). Instituted 18 October 1861 by King Wilhelm I. (1869-1916 issue). Constructed of 18K Gold with mutli-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée with white enameled arms, trimmed with gilt borders, with crossed swords piercing the centrepiece, the obverse bearing a central gilded crown, situated within a blue enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “GOTT MIT UNS” with arabesques, the reverse bearing a central gilt monogram of King Wilhelm I, situated within a blue enameled ring bearing an institution date of “DEN 18 OCTOBER 1861” with arabesques, the twelve o’clock arm topped by an eyelet and suspension ring retaining a period original ribbon with button closure, the six o’clock arm maker marked with the logo of Gebrüder Friedländer, Berlin, measuring 42.67 mm (w) x 46.69 mm (h), weighing 13.2 grams (inclusive of ribbon), accompanied by its original presentation case, constructed of a pressed card stock frame with a faux black leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilt monogram of King Wilhelm I, the interior with a white satin lid liner, with a retractable maroon velvet medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, unmarked, measuring 60 mm (w) x 80 mm (l) x 25 mm (h), demonstrating minor flecking and material fatigue to the award and case, respectively, an early example produced c. 1890, in extremely fine condition.