Romania, Kingdom. An Order Of The Ruling House, Commander Cross, C.1940

Instituted in December 1935 by King Charles II. Issued 1935-1940. Civil Division. A rare order, in silver gilt, presenting a white enamelled cross with black enamel borer, a laurel and oak leaf wreath in each quadrant, the obverse medallion features a crowned Romanian eagle with the Hohenzollern crest on its chest, surrounded by a blue enamel surround inscribed NIHIL SINE DEO (Nothing Without God) with crossed laurel and oak leaf sprigs at 6 o’clock, the reverse medallion features a crowned CC cypher within a blue enamelled ring inscribed 10 FEBRUARIE 1891, the cross is surmounted by a crown with internal red enamelled cap, measures 51.7mm (w) x 75mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned integral ball), weighs 53.8 grams, very minor enamel wear, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Royal House was originally established as the Princely House Order of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen in 1841. The Romanian Order was later instituted by King Carol II in 1935. It was conferred upon military Officers and civilians of equal rank in recognition of meritorious service, but it was discontinued a short time later following the abdication of King Carol II in 1940.