Order of the Dutch Lion, Knight

SKU: 01.NLD.0102.105.01

Estimated market value:

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  • Knight (Gold) Obverse
  • Knight (Gold) Obverse
  • Knight (Gold) Reverse
  • Knight (Gold) Reverse and Ring Detail

Attributes

  • country
    Netherlands
  • date of institution
    September 29, 1815
  • makers
    J.M.J. van Wielik, The Hague

History


The Order of the Dutch Lion was established by King William I in 1815 and is the oldest civil decoration of the Netherlands. The reigning Dutch monarch is the Grand Master of the Order.

The Order is conferred upon Dutch citizens in recognition of exceptional contributions to the state and public life in the Netherlands. Recognised merits include contributions to the nation made through civil service, excellent cultural works including art, music, and literature, and important scientific research. It may also be conferred upon foreigners, however this is rare.

There are three classes in this order. There was once a medal for 'Brothers' however, it had not been conferred since 1960 and was abolished in 1994. The decorations are meant to be returned to the state following the death of a member.

The Knight features an obverse inscription that translates to "Virtue Ennobles." It is worn by men on a 37mm wide breast ribbon and by women on a 27mm wide bow.

There may be additional versions that differ in manufacturer or composition.

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Versions

  • Price

    $700 USD

  • Composition

    Gold/Enamelled

  • Inscription

    Obv: VIRTUS NOBILITAT

  • Size

    41-46mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

    Value depends on metal composition, period and quality of manufacture; earlier awards made entirely in Gold/enamels are more valuable.

  • View Item
  • Price

    $300+ USD

  • Composition

    Silver gilt/Enamelled

  • Inscription

    Obv: VIRTUS NOBILITAT

  • Size

    40mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

    Value depends on metal composition, period and quality of manufacture; earlier awards made entirely in Gold/enamels are more valuable, t...

  • View Item
  • Price

    $600+ USD

  • Composition

    Gold/Enamelled

  • Inscription

    Obv: VIRTUS NOBILITAT

  • Size

    28x43mm

  • Maker

  • Version Remarks

    Value depends on metal composition, period and quality of manufacture; earlier awards made entirely in Gold/enamels are more valuable. V...

  • View Item

Miniatures

  • Price

    $300 USD

  • Size

    9.5x16mm

  • Composition

    Gold/Enamelled

  • Remarks

    This version is hallmarked on the ring, but the stamp is unknown.

  • Price

    $350 USD

  • Size

    10mm

  • Composition

  • Remarks

    This version is a French manufacture. It is composed of gold and enamel.

  • Price

    $50 USD

  • Size

    12x18mm

  • Composition

    Silver/Enamelled

  • Remarks

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