Physical Description

A star constructed of gold with four main diagonal rays, and rays between the main diagonal ones. The obverse centre bears a circular medallion with the image of two shaking hands, a cloud with sun rays shining through, below are two palm fronds, and above is the inscription "CONCORDIA". The reverse centre bears a circular medallion with the coat of arms of Frankfurt. On a loop for suspension on a red neck ribbon with a central white stripe. The Commander Cross is identical in design to the Grand Cross, but it is smaller in size.

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.

A total of 20 Commander Crosses were awarded.