Belgium, Kingdom. An Order of the Crown, Grand Cross Set, by P.De Greef

Instituted in 1897. The Grand Cross Badge in bronze gilt consists of a five-point star in white enamel, with emanating rays in between each point, hanging on a green-enameled laurel wreath; the obverse centerpiece bears a royal crown on a blue-enameled field, the reverse bears the stylized double L monogram of Leopold II; worn on red sash, inclusive of suspension 74.2 mm (h) x 52.6 mm (w), enamels intact, extremely fine condition. Accompanied by the Grand Cross Star, a five-pointed star, each point made of five quills with diamonds, in between each point are arms made of five quills; superimposed by a five-point star in white enamel, with emanating rays in between each point, the centerpiece bearing a royal crown on a blue-enameled field, the reverse pin and two clasps with P. DE GREEF mark, enamels intact, 98.2 mm, extremely fine condition. In its hard-shelled case of issue, white satin lined on the inside lid marked with P. DE GREEF, a crown on the exterior lid, missing exterior latch, fine condition.

Footnote: The Order was instituted on 15 October 1897 by King Leopold II and is one of Belgium’s highest honors. It recognized heroic deeds and distinguished service achieved for service in the Congo Free State.