Saxony, Kingdom. A Rare Order of Merit, Civil Division Grand Cross, by G.A. Scharffenberg, c.1910

(Verdienstorden Großkreuz). Instituted 7 June 1815 by King Friedrich August I. (1905-1918 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with white enameled arms, joined together through the quadrants by a green enameled rue wreath, the obverse bearing a central white enameled medallion overlaid by a gilded and enameled Saxon coat of arms topped by a crown, within a ring of white enamel bearing a gilt inscription of “FRIED. AUG. K. V. SACHSEN. D. 7 JUNI 1815”, the reverse bearing a central white enameled medallion overlaid by a gilt inscription of “FÜR VERDIENST UND TREUE” (“FOR MERIT AND LOYALTY”), within a ring of whtie enamel fully circumscribed by a green enameled oak leaf wreath, the twelve o’clock arm topped by two stylized ribbons which connecting to a hollow silver gilt crown suspension apparatus, in turn topped by a loop and suspension ring, accompanied by a period original full-length sash ribbon, the six o’clock arm maker marked “S” for G.A. Scharffenberg, Dresden, measuring 61.25 mm (w) x 87.34 mm (h), weighing 60.2 grams, small scratches are visible the arms and central medallion of the obverse while chip and gouging are visible to the top of the enamel and frame of the reverse twelve o’clock arm, a rare decoration in overall near extremely fine condition.