Leopold Order, Type II, Silver Collar
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.LPD.0102.201.01.000
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
32 solid silver chain links with smooth reverse, connected via two smaller chains. There are two types of chain links that are alternated. The first link is in the shape of a red enamelled rose on a white enamelled background with a silver border. The second link is in the shape of a crowned monogram ‘L’ (twelve links) or a crowned monogram ‘LL’ (four links). An ‘LL’ monogram serves as the chain’s centre, below it is the date ‘1906’, and suspended below it is the decoration.
The decoration is in the shape of a Maltese cross, constructed of silver and enamels. On top of the 12 o’clock arm, attached to an agraffe, sits a mobile cut-out crown. The cross is enamelled in purple with a smooth and raised silver border, and each cross arm tip features a silver ball finial. In between each cross arm pair is a silver monogram ‘L’. The centre of the cross features a medallion in white enamel with a red enamelled rose with golden centre and leaves. The medallion ring is smooth on the inside and decorated on the outside. The reverse is similar, except that the medallion is in pebbled silver and features the crowned monogram ‘L’, and the medallion ring is in pebbled silver and features the inscription ‘FÜR VERDIENST’ (‘for merit’) with a decorative line at the bottom.
The Leopold Order was founded by Prince Leopold IV in 1906, and was conferred upon individuals, regardless of rank or nationality, who rendered meritorious service to the sovereign and state. Originally, the order featured a single class, which could be conferred with or without a crown.
In 1908, the I Class Cross with Crown was modified to feature a stick pin fastening device. At this point, the order was extended to feature a Silver and Bronze Merit Medal.
In 1910, the order was extended to include a Grand Honour Cross, a Silver Collar, and a Gold Merit Medal. The Grand Honour Cross was conferred upon the princes of the House of Lippe, as well as members of other ruling houses.
The Grand Honour Cross served as I Class, the Cross with Crown as II Class, and the Cross without Crown as III Class.
In 1916, the order’s purpose was extended so that the decorations could serve as a reminder of the ascension of the Lippe-Biesterfeld line to the head of the House of Lippe.
The order became obsolete in 1918.
Type II features enamelled cross arms and an obverse inscription around the centre medallion.
The Silver Collar features 12 crowned "LL" monogram links and 16 rose links with inscriptions.
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