Saxony. A Civil Merit Order, I Class Knight’s Cross, With Swords, C.1914

(Zivil-Verdienstorden Ritterkreuz 1. Klasse mit Schwerter). Second Model. Issued 1914-1918. A silver gilt Maltese cross with white enameled arms, crossed swords, and green enameled florets between the arms of the cross, the obverse with a center white enameled medallion depicting the crowned Royal Monogram, surrounded by a white ring of enamels inscribed “Aug.(ust) K.(önig) V.(on) Sachsen d(en) 7. Jun(i). 1815” in silver gilt lettering, the reverse with a center enameled medallion inscribed “Für Verdienst und Treue” (German - For Merit and Loyalty) within a laurel wreath, on a loop for suspension from its period original ribbon; unmarked; measuring 45.11 mm (w) x 45.13 mm (h); weighing 22.4 grams; light contact marks and scuffs to the enamels; in overall very fine condition.

Footnote: With a total of 395 of this Civil Merit Order, Knight’s Cross, First Class, with Swords awarded.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.