*Imperial German, Post WW1, Pour le Mérite (“Blue Max”) – High-Quality Silver Wearer’s Copy*
Stamped “800” to suspension ring – fired enamel – likely to be a privately purchased example
A fine and convincing period jeweller-made Pour le Mérite, constructed in solid “800” silver with rich deep-blue fired enamel and separately applied Imperial eagles between the arms — sharply engraved with excellent feather detail. The obverse bears the correct crowned “F” cipher for King Frederick William IV and the motto “Pour le Mérite” in silvered script.
The Pour le Mérite was the highest Prussian award for bravery and leadership during the First World War. Owing to the fragility and prestige of the officially issued Godet decorations, many recipients privately commissioned additional pieces for everyday uniform wear — retaining their award piece only for ceremonial use. As the Pour le Mérite is among the most copied decorations in existence, absolute certainty without direct provenance is not possible; however, this is a particularly well-executed period example with strong quality throughout. This example displays features consistent with such period duplication: hand-executed enamel work, traditional multi-part construction, accurate proportions and a properly formed suspension loop with 800 silver mark.
Measurements Cross width: approx. 5.7 cm Material: Silver, stamped 800 Construction: Multi-piece with applied eagles; fired enamel
History Note: Instituted by King Frederick William IV in 1740 and later awarded throughout the First World War, the Pour le Mérite (“For Merit”) became the most prestigious Prussian decoration for military gallantry and command excellence. Award of the Blue Max was exceptionally rare — only around 700 officers received it during WWI — making it synonymous with elite achievement, particularly among Germany’s pioneering fighter aces and front-line commanders.
The official award pieces were predominantly manufactured by J. Godet & Söhne in Berlin, featuring flawless enamel work but delicate construction. As a result, many decorated officers privately purchased duplicate pieces for daily uniform wear or to replace lost originals. These period jeweller-made crosses vary slightly in workmanship and detail while remaining fully legitimate for wear by recipients.
This example reflects the characteristics of such privately commissioned wartime or interwar production — made to be worn with pride while preserving the formal award for ceremonial occasions.
*Condition* All original and complete. Deep enamel with some expected wear and small losses from service use. Silver with pleasing, untouched patination. Suspension secure. Ribbon period and worn. A strong and honest example with great visual presence. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
