Sweden - Royal Order of the Sword, Commander Class (Kungliga Svärdsorden, Kommendörsklassen)
The Royal Order of the Sword (Kungliga Svärdsorden) is one of Sweden’s highest orders of chivalry, established on February 23, 1748, by King Frederick I, alongside the Order of the Seraphim and the Order of the Polar Star. The order's Latin motto, "Pro Patria" (For the Fatherland), reflects its purpose of honoring military valor and distinguished service.
This specific piece is an 1856–1975 issue, classified as a Commander Class decoration, traditionally awarded to high-ranking military officers for bravery, exemplary leadership, and long-term contributions to Sweden’s defense forces.
Specifications
Dimensions: 77.10 mm (height, including crown suspension) x 55.64 mm (width)
Material: 18K gold with enamel details
Hallmarks:
"18K" gold hallmark
Maker’s mark "CFC" (please refer to pictures for verification).
Condition:
Chipped white enamel (see pictures for details).
New neck ribbon (replaced), reducing originality but maintaining display value.
Overall extremely fine condition despite enamel wear.
Design Features
Overall Structure
Gold Maltese cross with white enamel arms, representing chivalric honor and military distinction.
Crown suspension, signifying royal authority and prestige.
Obverse (Front)
Central blue enamel medallion featuring a gold Swedish sword and three crowns, symbolizing Sweden’s monarchy and military strength.
Reverse (Back)
Central blue enamel medallion depicting a gold Swedish sword, emblematic of military defense and service.
Encircled by the order’s Latin motto:
"PRO PATRIA" (For the Fatherland).
Suspension & Ribbon
Crown suspension, reinforcing its royal significance.
New neck ribbon (replacement), affecting authenticity but preserving usability.
Historical Context
Creation & Evolution
Instituted in 1748 by King Frederick I of Sweden, the order was originally bestowed for acts of military bravery and excellence.
Over time, it became a standard award for officers upon completion of distinguished service.
Hierarchy of the Order
The order initially had three classes, later expanded to five classes in peacetime:
Commander Grand Cross (Kommendör med Storkors) – Highest distinction, reserved for top-ranking military officials and royalty.
Commander 1st Class (Kommendör av Första klassen) – Conferred upon high-ranking officers and generals.
Commander (Kommendör) – Awarded to senior officers and military officials (this piece).
Knight 1st Class (Riddare av Första klassen) – Given to mid-ranking officers.
Knight (Riddare) – Entry-level recognition for junior officers.
Discontinuation & Modern Status
In 1975, Sweden ceased awarding orders to Swedish citizens, making pre-1975 pieces particularly significant.
Today, the Order of the Sword is only awarded to foreign nationals in exceptional military circumstances.
This Sweden - Royal Order of the Sword, Commander Class (1856–1975 Issue) is a historically significant and highly collectible military decoration, representing Swedish military excellence and royal chivalry.
Despite chipped enamel and a replaced ribbon, its 18K gold construction, intact hallmarks, and pre-1975 status make it a valuable addition to collections of Scandinavian or European military orders.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess enamel condition, gold hallmarks, and overall presentation.
 
Shipping for this medal will be exclusively handled by a courier company with full insurance coverage.