Grand Duke

A Grand Duke (male) or Grand Duchess (female) is the highest ranking hereditary title of nobility in the Kingdom of Pyrus. A Grand Duke thus outranks all other holders of a title of nobility (Duke, Marquess, Earl, Count, Viscount, Baron and Lord).
The wife of a Grand Duke is known as a Grand Duchess. This is also the title of a woman who holds a Grand Dukedom in her own right, however her husband does not receive any title. In the order of precedence in the Kingdom of Pyrus, Grand Dukes without state offices or positions generally take precedence after Bishops and before Dukes.
== Forms of Address ==
Begin: My Lord Grand Duke
Address: His Grace the Grand Duke [Name of Duchy]
Speak to as: Your Grace (formal and employees), Grand Duke (social)
Ceremonial, formal, or legal title: The Most High, Noble and Potent Prince His Grace [Forename], Grand Duke [Name of Duchy]
== Coronet ==
A Pyrusian Grand Duke is entitled to a coronet (a silver-gilt circlet, chased as jewelled but not actually gemmed) bearing four conventional strawberry leaves between four fleur de lays on the rim of the circlet. The physical coronet is worn only at coronations. Any peer can bear his coronet of rank on his coat of arms above the shield
== History ==
The first creation of a Grand Duke was on 1st January 1772 when King Balin created the title Grand Duke of Credain for his son, Prince Cunglas.
There have only been three other Grand Dukes created, but all Grand Duke titles have either been forfeit or merged in crown. There are currently no extant Grand Duchies.
== See Also ==
Peerage of Pyrus
List of Grand Dukes in the Kingdom of Pyrus
List of Grand Duchies in the Kingdom of Pyrus
Category:Peerage of Pyrus