The Seal Duty

• All titles have a value and this value is known as the Seal Duty. It is expressed in Ecus (a heraldic term that is specific to the la Foundation) and does not fluctuate. It is converted into foreign currencies, which do fluctuate. 
• Current value of the Ecu: 1 Ecu = CHF 1.20 / = US$ 1.10 / = Euro 0.77 
• The funds collected are allocated to the Foundation’s cultural and charitable initiatives, as well as to the renovation of assets or châteaux that, by means f the Foundation’s statutes, are for the enjoyment of the Knights. 
• This amount may be converted into works on behalf of the Foundation and its works. In this instance, an express request must be made. 
• The Seal Duty may be paid in a single sum or divided into instalments over a maximum of a year and a half. 
• If payment is by instalment, the coat-of-arms and the title will be reserved as soon as the minimum payment of Ecus 300.00, namely CHF 360.00, US$ 330.00 or Euros 230.00 is made. This amount covers the value of the coat-of-arms, which then become the owner’s property, but without the title. 
• Before the Seal Duty is paid in full and before obtaining his Letter of Knighthood, which will ratify the title along with the notarial attestation, the Knight will receive, after the first afore-mentioned instalment, a Letter of Recognition confirming that his title has been reserved and that he owns his coat-of-arms. 
• When the Knight, or Dame, has paid his Seal Duty in full, he will receive from the Foundation, ownership of his coat-of-arms and his title, ratified by a Letter of Knighthood in his name and certified by two members of the Foundation’s Présidial. He will also receive a letter of investiture, a protocol and a notarial attestation guaranteeing him that his title is protected and unique. 
• The sums due from the Seal Duty are paid by credit card, cheque, bank transfer or postal cheque to the following address: 

By Post:
Fondation de l’OCR
Rue Nicolas-Glasson 5
CP 553
CH-1630 Bulle
Tél. 0041 79 210 8000