A change in monarchy often brings great fanfare—especially when three rulers ascend in rapid succession. This rose-cut diamond, gold, and platinum brooch commemorates Germany’s “Year of Three Emperors” in 1888. Following the death of Kaiser Wilhelm I in March, his son Frederick III ruled briefly before succumbing to illness just 99 days later, leading to the reign of Wilhelm II. The German phrase “Drei Achten, drei Kaiser” (“Three eights, three emperors”) remains a popular mnemonic for this extraordinary year. The brooch endures as a symbol of how abrupt shifts in leadership can shape a nation’s course and historical memory.
Craftsmanship
A small gold and platinum plaque, this pin is set with old rose-cut diamonds spelling out the year 1888. Though the country of origin is unknown, the piece bears indistinct importation marks. Measuring ¾ × ¼ inch and weighing 3 grams.
