Romania, Kingdom. An Early Order of the Crown of Romania, Grand Cross Set, Type I, by K. Fischmeister, c. 1900

(Ordin Corona României). Instituted March 14th, 1881. (Type I: 1881-1941). A fine first type of an Order of the Crown of Romania, Grand Cross Set, consisting of:

1. The Grand Cross. An eight-pointed radiant silver breast star bearing a Maltese Cross in red and white enamels, with the Royal Cypher of King Carol I of Romania in the quadrants between the arms of the cross, the obverse center with a circular red enameled medallion bearing the Royal Crown of Romania, surrounded by a white ring of enamels inscribed “Prin Noi Insine / 14 Martie 1881” in Latin, the reverse has been customized by the recipient with a layer of woolen cloth to act as a barrier between the uniform and the award, with a barrel hinge, vertical tapered pinback, and broad rightward-opening catch, marked “KF” (K. Fischmeister), and “A” (Vienna) on the reverse of the pin, measuring 88.6 mm (w) x 88.0 mm (l), weighing 82.32 grams. 

2. The Sash Badge. A silver gilt Maltese cross in red and white enamels, with the Royal Cypher of King Carol I of Romania in the quadrants between the arms of the cross, the obverse center with a circular red enameled medallion bearing the Royal Crown of Romania, surrounded by a white ring of enamels inscribed “Prin Noi Insine / 14 Martie 1881” in Latin, the reverse with a similar circular central medallion, inscribed “10. Maiu”, surrounded by a white ring of enamels inscribed “1866, 1877, 1881” in gilt, on a horizontally pierced ball and swivel ring for suspension from its period original and full size sash ribbon, unmarked, measuring 69.9 mm (w) x 70.0 mm (l), weighing 52.44 grams. 

A fine example of this award, having lost some of its original gilt finish through age and wear, with moderate chipping and flaking to the enamels on the reverse of the sash badge, in overall near extremely fine condition.