Physical Description

A Latin cross with concaved arms constructed of gold or silver gilt and enamels. The quadrants between the arms bear a green enameled oak wreath with small red berries. The obverse bears an ovular medallion with the crowned cipher "W" encompassed by a twisted border. The arms of the cross bear the inscription "IMMOTA FIDES". The reverse is plain. On a loop for suspension on a red ribbon with yellow stripes.

History

The Dukely Order of Henry the Lion was founded by Duke Wilhelm of Brunswick on April 25, 1834. The order was conferred upon individuals who distinguished themselves by rendering meritorious military or civil service. Civil service included outstanding work in the fields of art and science.

The conferral of the award was not dependent on an individual’s class or rank.
The grand mastery was linked to the government of the duchy, and the oldest voting member of the ducal state ministry acted as chancellor.
Decorations had to be returned upon the death of the recipient.

During the Franco-German War in 1870, crossed swords were added to all war merit awards.
In 1877, the Knight class was split into I Class Knight and II Class Knight.
In 1908, on the commemoration day of Duke Wilhelm's birthday, the order was redesigned with the addition of a I Class between the Grand Cross and the Commander Cross, as well as an Officer Cross between the Commander Cross and I Class Knight Cross.
The Dukely Order of Henry the Lion was conferred from 1834 to 1918.

The I Class Merit Cross was awarded from 1834 to 1912. A total of 1,859 were awarded.