Prussian Order of the Crown, Military Division, First Class Breast Star

Place Europe: Germany, Prussia
Accession Number RELAWM01285
Collection type Heraldry
Object type Award
Physical description Enamel, Silver, Silver gilt
Maker Godet und Sohne
Place made Germany
Date made c 1914
Conflict First World War, 1914-1918
Description

Prussian Order of the Crown, Military Division, First Class Breast Star. A convex eight pointed, silver sunray star with crossed swords in silver gilt. In the centre a crown in gold surrounded by the inscription 'GOTT MIT UNS' on a blue enamel ring. The star has a plain reverse with a large vertical brooch pin, stamped JG&S.

History / Summary

Instituted in 1861, the Prussian Order of the Crown could only be awarded to commissioned officers (or civilians of approximately equivalent status). A lower grade medal associated with the order could be earned by non-commissioned officers and enlisted men. Crossed swords indicates the Military Division of the Order. The original the ribbon was plain pale blue but changed to the black and white in wartime for all classes or the award.
The Order had six classes: Grand Cross - Badge in gold and white enamel on a sash over the right shoulder, plus the star in gold on the left breast; 1st Class - Badge in silver gilt and enamel on a sash over the right shoulder, plus an eight pointed silver star on the left breast; 2nd Class -Badge in silver and enamel around the neck, and a four pointed star in silver on the left breast; 3rd Class - An enamel badge on a ribbon on the left chest; 4th Class - A gilt badge on a ribbon on the left chest; Medal - Medal on a ribbon on the left chest.
This medal forms part of a collection assembled by the Memorial in the 1920s for display.