Physical Description

A Maltese cross, constructed of gold and enamel. On top of the cross sits a mobile golden cut-out crown. The cross arms are enamelled in white with narrow golden edges, and the tips of the cross arms feature golden ball finials. In between the arms are five golden rays each. The arms feature the golden inscription ‘BENE’ (12 o’clock) ‘ME’ (9 o’clock) ‘REN’ (3 o’clock) ‘TIBUS’ (6 o’clock) (‘to those whose merit made them deserving’). The obverse centre medallion is enamelled in blue and features the crowned golden monogram ‘FR’. The reverse is golden, smooth, and blank. On a loop for suspension, on a black ribbon with yellow side stripes.

History

The Order of Civil Merit was established by King Friedrich I to recognise court officials and civil servants who rendered outstanding service, but were ineligible to receive the Order of the Golden Eagle due to their social status. The order had three classes and a limited number of members, although the king had the right to increase the number. At one time, there could only be 6 Grand Cross members, 6 Commander Cross members, and 36 Knight Cross members.

On December 1, 1806, all recipients were made members of the aristocracy. Recipients were required to incorporate the Order of Civil Merit into their coat of arms.

If a civil servant or court official had rendered at least 24 years of loyal service and had the support of his superior, the individual could submit a request to receive the order to a chapter of the order. The request would be considered by a committee of the order’s chancellors and the result would be submitted to the king.

Recipients were required to wear their awards at all times, and if they failed to do so, they had to donate 20 Reichsthaler to the poor. If a recipient consistently failed to wear the award, their membership was revoked.

This order was merged with the Order of the Golden Eagle on September 23, 1818, to create the Order of the Württemberg Crown.

The Commander Cross is identical to the Grand Cross, except it was worn on a neck ribbon instead of a sash.