Order of the Romanian Crown, Type I, Civil Division, Grand Cross
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.ROM.0107.101.01.000
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
The sash badge constructed of silver gilt, in the shape of a Maltese cross with red and white enameled arms, and a central red enameled medallion depicting the Romanian Royal crown, surrounded by a white ring of enamels inscribed “Prin Noi Insine” (Latin - By Ourselves), and dated “14. March.1881”; the reverse with a vertical pinback and broad catch; maker marked “Joseph Resch, Bucharest - Fils”; the reverse with a central red enameled medallion inscribed “10. May”, surrounded by a ring of white enamels dated “1866 - 1877 - 1881”; measuring 69x69mm; weighing 66.6 grams; accompanied by its period original and full size 104mm wide ribbon sash; light patina from age, and with light wear to the original gilt finish of the sash badge, but the enamels free from chips or cracks of any kind; in overall near mint condition.
The Order of the Romanian Crown was established by King Carol I in 1881 on the same day as his coronation. It was conferred upon Romanian citizens and foreigners in recognition of special merit. Beginning in 1938, the Order was awarded in civilian and military divisions, and in 1939 a grade was added for women. It could also be awarded with swords in recognition of wartime merit from 1916-1947. The Order was permanently suppressed in 1947 following the abolition of the Romanian monarchy. Today it exists as a dynastic order that is only awarded by the House of Hohenzollern.
There are two models of the Grand Cross. The first features a crown on the obverse while the second features the royal cypher of King Carol II. The second model was awarded in three divisions that differ in design. The Grand Cross (Military Division, peacetime, 1932-1947) features a surmounting crown and the Grand Cross (Military Division, wartime, 1938-1947) features a surmounting crown and crossed swords. All versions have an obverse inscription that translates to "By Ourselves."
From 1881-1932 the Grand Cross was awarded on a blue ribbon edged in grey and from 1932-1947 it was awarded on a blue ribbon with a centre silver stripe. From 1932-1947 it could also be awarded on a wartime ribbon (the same but with additional gold stripes) or a bravery ribbon (red with blue edges).
There may be additional versions of the Grand Cross that differ in size or composition due to a variety of manufacturers.
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