The order was established on May 24, 1869 by Prince Henry XIV. A younger line was created. 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. Upon promotion, the lower class was subject to return. This did not apply to sword decorations if the highest degree was awarded without swords. 4th grade was assigned in priority to junior doctors, inspectors, treasurers and similar ranks. Source: J. Nimmergut, Deutsche Orden und Ehrenzeichen bis 1945, vol. II, 1997.
Silver cross in Maltese uniform. Cruciform arms with raised arms. narrow, smooth edges finely granular inside. Front and back sides with an overhead silver medallion. 2 gilded swords pass through the center. Between the tips of the upper cruciform shoulder is an ornamented agraf with an ear and a ribbon ring.
Front side:
Downside:
Tape:
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Obverse: 4th Class Princely Reusian Cross with Swords
Reusian cross 4th class with swords
Awards of World War II