Friedrich Order, Type I, Breast Star

CATEGORY: Version

SKU: 01.WUT.0108.102.01.000

Estimated market value:

$4,500 USD

  • Friedrich Order, Type I, Breast Star Obverse
  • Friedrich Order, Type I, Breast Star Reverse

Estimated market value:

$4,500 USD

Attributes

  • Country
    Germany
  • Makers
    Peck Oliver, Paris
  • Composition
    Silver/Gold/Enamelled
  • Inscription
    Obv: GOTT UND MEIN RECHT
  • Size
    70.5-73mm
  • Image Licensing
    The image of the Friedrich Order, Type I, Breast Star is attributed to Andreas Thies, Catalog 43, December 10, 2010. Please see the following page for more information: https://www.andreas-thies.de/onTEAM/grafik/43Auktion_S033_064.pdf

History


The Friedrich Order was established by King Wilhelm I on January 1, 1830, to commemorate his father King Friedrich I for his great service to the royal house and to the state of Württemberg. The order was awarded in recognition of meritorious military and civil service rendered to the royal house.

From 1830 to 1856, the order featured a single Cross grade with an associated Breast Star. In 1856, the order was amended to include the grades of Grand Cross with Grand Cross Breast Star, I Class Commander with I Class Commander Breast Star, II Class Commander, and Knight.

Type I order recipients were granted personal knighthood. They were required to incorporate the decoration they received into their title, as well as into their coat of arms. Type II order recipients were not granted personal knighthood.

As of September 19, 1870, surmounting crossed swords could be added to all grades to recognise a recipient for military merit in wartime. At the same time, the Knight grade was divided into the two separate grades of I Class Knight and II Class Knight. Previous recipients of the Knight Grade were upgraded to I Class Knight. Some sources falsely claim that the Knight grade was divided in 1866.

As of 1890, swords could also be added to the Breast Stars of the order.

In 1892, King Wilhelm II added the grade of Golden Merit Medal to the order.

As of March 6, 1899, surmounting crowns could be added to the Grand Cross and the Grand Cross Breast Star to recognise a recipient for exceptional and special merit.

As of 1917, the Grand Cross could be worn as a neck decoration.

The appearance of the ring suspension may vary; some versions feature a golden ring that is fashioned in the form of a laurel wreath while others feature a plain metal ring.

It is estimated that the Type I Breast Star was awarded 99 times.

The appearance and size of the Breast Star may vary. The cross arms may be filed/faceted, pebbled, or smooth.

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