Physical Description

An eight-rayed star constructed of embroidery and gold or silver. The rays of the star are embroidered, and the obverse centre medallion is in gold or silver. The medallion depicts two shaking hands, a cloud with sun rays shining through, below are two palm fronds, and above is the inscription "CONCORDIA".

History

The Concordia Order was founded on August 15, 1813 by Grand Duke Karl Theodor of Dalberg. The order was conferred in recognition of outstanding merit.

The order was first awarded in February 1813 and the order statutes were established in August of the same year. The Concordia Order could only be conferred upon citizens of Frankfurt.

The order applied a principle of exclusivity, which meant that members were not permitted to accept decorations from other orders. The Concordia Order consisted of 12 Grand Crosses, 24 Commander Crosses, and 24 Knights Crosses. The Grand Duke held the right to confer awards beyond that number.

Recipients of the Grand Cross and Commander Cross were granted knighthoods, unless they already held hereditary nobility.

The Concordia Order was dissolved only a year after its institution. A list of recipients was compiled and completed on July 11, 1814. The order had to be returned after the death of the recipient.

Only 18 Grand Cross Breast Stars were awarded.