Original Federal Republic of Germany Order Order of Merit, Grand Cross set 

Large gilt-edged red enamel narrow-armed cross pattée with scroll and loop and gilt neck ribbon suspension ring; the face with a circular central gilt medallion imposed bearing a black eagle, wings outstretched; the reverse of identical design; height excluding suspension ring 80mm, width 70mm; on original full sash ribbon with gilt metal fastening clip. The breast badge is of the same design as the cross, but on a 70mm x 78mm starburst, gilt finished, with central domed reverse centre, with shaped pin, marked for Steinhauer & Lück Lüdenscheid, with silver content stamp .800. A beautiful example of this exceptionally rare grade of the order.

The Order is the highest honour that the Federal Republic of Germany bestows and was instituted by President Theodor Heuss on 7 September 1951, second anniversary of the founding of the Federal Republic, ‘with the desire to create a visible expression of recognition and thanks for meritorious men and women of the German people and from abroad for service in the fields of politics, socio-economics and intellectual work and for service in rebuilding the fatherland, and, as an award intended for all, for contributions to enhancing Germany’s reputation abroad’. A superb example.