These swords were attached under the bottom arm of the blue cross, and on the breast star on grades this was applicable.

Until the end of the monarchy in November 1918, the medal was awarded in the following order of precedence: The badge of the order is a golden, four-armed eight-pointed, light blue enamelled St. John's Cross with a red, blasted central shield on which the crowned column with the jumping Saxon steed and on the wings of the helmet and the peacock feathers of the coat of arms are attached.

The motto IMMOTA FIDES (unshakable loyalty) is written on the lapel of the middle shield with the foundation's Roman date MDCCCXXXIV all around.

In the obverse is the founders "W" initial, enclosed by a wreath of oak leaves and surmounted by a crown.

On the reverse the two-line order motto already described, and above it is a six-pointed star while below are two crossed oak branches.

The breast star for the Grand Commander is different, made up of a silver representation of the orders badge, with four golden crowned "W"s between each of the four arms.

The central medallion is a made up of a red enamelled disk featuring the orders motto in gold, surrounded by a golden wreath.

All versions of the decoration are carried on a crimson ribbon with yellow edges in different sizes according to the relevant classes.