Romania, Kingdom. An Order of the Crown, Grand Cross, Type I, by Karl Fischmeister

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

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, marked “KF” (K. Fischmeister), and “A” (Vienna) on the suspension ring, measuring 68.8 mm (w) x 68.9 mm (l), weighing 62.32 grams, enamel chips to the reverse inscription ring around the medallion, remains near extremely fine. 

Accompanied by the Grand Cross Star, 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 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, reverse of the medallion marked JOSEPH RESCHDIU BUCHAREST, measuring 69.9 mm (w) x 70.0 mm (l), weighing 52.44 grams, very minor enamel wear, lovely toning, extremely fine.

The set is contained in a customized case, black leatherette exterior with interior white silk lid and base, measures 28 cm (w) x 15 cm (l) x 4 cm (d), light wear and scuffing, remains very fine.