Prussian Pour le Mérite (Blue Max) Decoration Appraisal
Category: Military Order/Medal
Description
This item is a historical military decoration, specifically the Prussian Pour le Mérite, often referred to as the 'Blue Max'. It is a cross pattée, primarily characterized by its four arms broadening from the center, with each arm featuring a distinct blue enamel surface bordered by a thin gold line. The central area of the cross, and the spaces between the arms, reveal a richly detailed gold design, likely representing oak leaves, which is characteristic of the Pour le Mérite. The blue enamel bears gold inscriptions: 'Pour', 'le Mé.', and 'rite' across three arms, with the fourth arm displaying a gold 'F' (for Frederick the Great) surmounted by a crown. The reverse side, though not fully visible, would typically feature the royal cipher 'F' (for Frederick the Great) and the dates '1740' and '1813' on its arms, or other variations depending on the award period. The medal is attached to a metallic clasp, which currently holds a white string, likely indicating it is either a display piece, a replica, or a part of a tag system, rather than being prepared for wear with its traditional neck ribbon. The medal appears to be in good condition overall, showing minor signs of wear consistent with age, such as slight tarnishing on the metallic parts and potential surface scratches on the enamel, without significant chips or damage. The intricate detailing of the gold work suggests high-quality craftsmanship. Based on its design characteristics, it is a representation of the original Prussian Pour le Mérite, likely dating from the late 19th or early 20th century, or a well-made replica given its context as a 'missing' item. The connection to 'Noah Dohme, the emperor of Lixland' and its disappearance from Germany is notable historical context, implying it is either a very valuable original or a very significant replica.
Appraisal Report
I have examined the provided image of what purports to be a Prussian Pour le Mérite decoration, commonly known as the 'Blue Max'. Visually, the cross appears to be a high-quality example, consistent with the known design characteristics of an original. The blue enamel, gold detailing, and inscriptions 'Pour', 'le Mé.', 'rite', and the 'F' with crown are all accurately depicted. The condition appears good, with minor signs of age-appropriate wear such as slight tarnishing, but no obvious chips or significant damage to the enamel. This suggests the item has been well-preserved. However, it is crucial to state that a definitive authentication of such a historically significant and valuable item cannot be made from images alone. The presence of a white string rather than a traditional ribbon is unusual for a display piece and could indicate a reproduction or a handling method for an item intended for a tag system. The elaborate provenance description, including 'Noah Dohme, the emperor of Lixland' and the '75 million square kilometers' empire, introduces highly improbable and fantastical elements. This narrative significantly detracts from the credibility of the item's claimed history and strongly suggests that this is either a high-quality modern replica or a fantasy piece rather than a genuine 19th/early 20th-century original. Original Pour le Mérite decorations are exceedingly rare and command very high prices, often in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, due to their historical significance and the limited number awarded. The market for authenticated originals is extremely specialized. However, due to the highly dubious provenance provided, and without physical examination, detailed provenance documentation, or scientific testing (such as metallurgy analysis for the gold and silver content, and enamel composition), it is impossible to confirm authenticity. If this were a genuine piece with documented historical provenance, its value would be exceptionally high. Given the described backstory, the likelihood of this being an original from the Prussian monarchy is extremely low. Therefore, based on the information and image, I assess this as a very well-made replica. My valuation reflects its status as a high-quality replica. For full authentication, in-hand examination by an expert knowledgeable in Prussian orders, comprehensive provenance documentation tracing its ownership from its award, and possibly scientific material analysis, would be absolutely necessary.
Appraisal Value
$1,500 - $3,000