The princely Reusian honorary cross was established on May 24, 1869 by Prince Henry XIV. For the first time for the principality, a younger line was established. The order consisted of 3 classes and could be awarded to domestic and foreign citizens for special faithful merits and excellent achievements. In 1885, the charter was amended. Now the order consisted of 4 classes and an attached silver medal for merit. In addition, 1st grade received the crown. Grades 1 and 2 had white enameled cruciform arms and were made of gold or gilded. 3rd class was without enameled silver crosses. In 1897, the gold medal "For Merit" was established and annexed to the order. Since 1902, with the assumption of government affairs by Henry XXIV. (senior line) Henry XIV (junior line) the order was also extended to the principality of the senior line. In 1909, the honorary cross was expanded with an officer cross and 4th grade. The remaining classes can now be awarded a crown. For military merits, swords were granted for all classes. In 1915, a military ribbon was introduced. The assignment of individual classes occurred depending on rank or social status. The 1st class was awarded to major generals, colonels and persons of comparable rank. By the end of World War I, crosses began to be made of silver. Source: J. Nimmergut, Deutsche Orden und Ehrenzeichen bis 1945, vol. II, 1997.
A cross made of gold or gilded silver in Maltese form. Between the cross sleeves there are 7 gold, stepped rays. The cross arms are sheathed in gold and enameled in white. Front and back sides with embossed, gold and enameled medallion. Between the tips of the upper cruciform shoulder is an ornamented agraf with an ear and an elongated waist ring.
Front side:
Downside:
Tape:
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Front side: Princely Reus honorary cross of the 1st class
Reverse: 1st Class Princely Reusian Cross
Awards of World War II