Saxe-Ernestine, Duchy. A House Order Of Saxe-Ernestine, Grand Cross Star With Surmounting Swords, C. 1914

(Sachsen-Ernestinischer Hausorden, Großkreuz und Bruststern mit Schwertern). Instituted 25 December 1833 by Duke Friedrich of Saxe-Altenburg, Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, and Duke Bernhard II of Saxe-Meiningen. (1833-1918 issue). Military Division. The Star of the order, in silver with eight points featuring clusters of seven smooth rays, alternating between silver and Gold rays, a white enamelled Maltese cross with ball finials on the obverse, the center medallion in Gold with a green enamelled crown surrounded by a blue ring inscribed FIDELITER ET CONSTANTER (Faithful and Steadfast), in turn ringed by a green enamelled laurel wreath, crossed swords site atop the Gold 12 o’clock arm, the reverse presents a single pin assembly, measures 83.75mm (w) x 85.45mm (h), weigh 69.0 grams, light enamel wear to crown and wreath, minor wear, in otherwise extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order was jointly founded by Duke Ernst I of Coburg-Gotha, Duke Friedrich of Altenburg, and Duke Bernhard Erich Freund of Saxony-Meiningen. In 1850 the Order was amended to allow crossed swords, through the centre of the cross or on the surmounting ring, to be added to the awards conferred to recognize wartime merits.