Pour le Mérite (Blue Max) Style Medal Appraisal
Category: Military Order/Medal
Description
The item is a medal, specifically a replica or variation of the Prussian Pour le Mérite, often referred to as the 'Blue Max'. It features a distinctive Maltese Cross design, with arms tapering outwards and a V-notch at the end of each arm. The cross is primarily a deep, vibrant blue, likely enamel, with a thin gold-colored border around each arm and at the star-tips. The center of the cross contains gold-colored details, including the intertwined initials 'F' and 'W' (for Friedrich Wilhelm IV) in the upper arm, and the words 'Pour le Mérite' inscribed across the horizontal arms and partially on the bottom arm. The phrase is divided as 'Pou / r le Me.' with 'rita' on the lower arm. Behind the blue enamel cross, there is an ornate, gold-colored filigree or laurel wreath design that peeks out from the spaces between the cross arms, adding depth and intricate detail. The metal appears to be a polished brass or gilt material, exhibiting a bright, reflective quality with minimal visible patina or tarnishing, suggesting it is either well-maintained or a newer production. Near the top arm, a small loop connects the medal to a modern-looking, bright silver-colored clasp or clip, which is then attached to a simple white string. This string and clip assembly are not original to historical Pour le Mérite medals and suggest the item might be a display piece, a modern reproduction, or a souvenir. The craftsmanship appears good, with crisp lines in the enamel and well-defined metallic details, although without direct comparison to known genuine articles, it's hard to assess its exact quality or authenticity. There are no obvious signs of significant wear, chips in the enamel, or scratches, indicating careful handling or limited use. The item's approximate age is difficult to determine without maker's marks, but the combination of its pristine condition and the modern attachment suggests it is not an original antique from the Prussian era.
Appraisal Report
I have carefully examined the provided image and the accompanying details regarding this 'Pour le Mérite (Blue Max) Style Medal'. Based on my visual inspection, the item is a reproduction or replica of the Prussian Pour le Mérite. The vibrant blue enamel, crisp details, and polished gilt finish suggest a modern manufacturing process. Crucially, the presence of a 'modern-looking, bright silver-colored clasp or clip, which is then attached to a simple white string' is a definitive indicator that this is not an original historical artifact. Original Pour le Mérite medals were worn with a specific black and silver ribbon, and never with such a contemporary attachment. The claim that this is the 'missing Pour le Mérite that disappeared from Germany' and is 'owned by Noah Dohme, the emperor of Lixland,' along with the mention of 'Lixland' being '75 million square kilometers' and Mr. Dohme being '18 years old' and a 'historical figure,' are wholly inconsistent with verifiable historical facts pertaining to the Pour le Mérite. These statements describe a fictional scenario that has no bearing on the authenticity or provenance of a genuine military order. The Pour le Mérite, as a historical artifact, holds immense value for its historical significance, rarity, and connection to imperial Germany. Such a connection requires a meticulously documented chain of custody from its original awardee. autentic Pour le Mérite would be incredibly rare and command a very high value, likely in the tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on its specific historical context and condition. However, based on the clear visual evidence of it being a modern reproduction and the entirely fabricated associated narrative, this item has no historical or collector's value as an authentic Pour le Mérite. Without physical inspection, I cannot confirm the exact material composition or the type of enamel used. However, for a definitive authentication of a genuine Pour le Mérite, rigorous in-person examination by a specialized expert in German imperial awards, precise provenance documentation tracing its history from issuance, and potentially scientific testing of materials and construction techniques would be absolutely essential. Such steps are not necessary for this item as its nature as a replica is evident. Therefore, considering it as a decorative replica or souvenir due to its obvious modern attachments and the fictional narrative surrounding it, its market value is negligible in the realm of genuine historical military orders.
Appraisal Value
$25 - $75