PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: The award consists of a black enamel Maltese cross, about 1 1/2" across, with crossed swords between the arms and ball finials to each of the eight points. On the obverse and reverse are 1/2" central gold disks with beaded borders, the obverse featuring a Lion Rampant while the reverse has the has the monogram, a stylized "A", of King Albert. Attached to the top of the cross is a 3 dimensional gold crown, with ball and cross on top. A ring passes through the ball on the top of the crown though which a 1 7/16" wide by 5" long piece of the original, green with two red stripes, ribbon is threaded. The ribbon is adorned with a rosette which signifies a 1st class award. The award comes with its original simulated red leather covered wood case, that is about 4 3/4" by 2 7/16" by 1 1/8", with a piano wire hinge and a spring loaded push button latch. The lid has the partially worn gold text "1^RE Classe" (1^st Class). The interior lid is lined in a light yellow satin with a makers name in script "J Fonson", "Médaillegy Acr" and knights helm with plume, both in faded black. The bottom interior is lined with a padded black felt surrounded by a raised white cardboard insert which serves to hold the lid in place when closed. Between the lid and bottom is a strip of white satin that would normally hide the hinge but is unfortunately separating. The medal is in very good condition with all the enamel intact except for one tiny pit on the obverse. The case is fully functional with minor wear to the edges, some minor scuffs to the top and light scuff marks to the edges on the bottom.

GRADE****                             PRICE $172.00