Romania King Carol II In Exile Cross Of Honor For Merit Breast Star + Crown

[Linasl]

Hello everyone.  I am both a collector and eBay seller.  I just bought a medal from an auction in Europe.  It is supposedly and exceptionally Rare Romania King Carol II In Exile Cross Of Honor For Merit Breast Star + Crown.  Please see photo.  Below is what the description stated:

"2nd Class with Crown (for Special Awards) by "Da Costa, Lisboa". Breast Star, 58x47 mm, gilt Metal, medallion and crown on the top enameled, thin pin on reverse. Very rare order and interesting special design for exceptional merits, of the period of exile of King Carol II! Extremely fine condition. I RR!  "

I am interested in any information about this Cross that you may have.

Thank you. Linas

PS: I don't have a photo of the reverse.

Edited September 1, 2020 by Linasl

[Carol I]

Carol II has indeed established a Cross of Honour for Merit as a dynastic award organised in two classes (none of which had the design of the Da Costa piece). The cross was ranked below the Order for Merit that had a breast star for the highest class, again with a significantly different design from the Da Costa piece. 

[Linasl]

Thanks Carol.  Linas

[Carol I]

I forgot to say that none of the classes of the 'official' Cross of Honour for Merit had surmounting crowns.

Two questions stand out. Why would Carol allow a departure from the 'official' design and what would be the purpose of this award since Carol was rather unpopular and isolated politically while in exile, both during the second reign of his son and after the communist takeover.

[Bayern]

Hello ,I agree with Carol I ,none of the classes of the Crucea de onoare pentru Merit included surmonting crown .

[paul wood]

could it be da costa providing a private commission to a collector or dealer as it is as real as a thylacine walking down present day central Hobart.

p