Greece, Kingdom. A Cross of Valour, Gold Grade in Case

 (Αριστείον Ανδρείας, Aristeion Andreias). Instituted in 1913. In silver gilt with ultramarine blue and white enamels, obverse medallion featuring St. George, the reverse inscribed ΑΞΙΑ (For Merit), crown suspension, measuring 30.4 mm (w) x 48.5 mm (h), intact enamels, original ribbon, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition. 

Contained in original blue case of issue, measures 60 mm (w) x 106 mm (h) x 20 mm (d), case marked GODET BERLIN on bottom, slight discolouration and wear, very fine. 

Footnote: The Cross of Valour was established in 1913, immediately after the victorious battles of the Greek Army in the First Balkan War, the details about its awarding settled by Royal Decree on March 21, 1921. It ranked as the supreme distinction for exceptional deeds and acts of gallantry on the field of battle and was the highest war decoration for those who took part in the Balkan Wars of 1912-1913 and the Asia Minor Campaign of 1921-1922. It was also re-instituted on November 11, 1940 shortly after the outbreak of the Greco-Italian War, and finally a third time, in 1974. Also, in time of peace, it was awarded to those serving in the Armed Forces, in the Public Safety Corps, and to Greek civilians of foreign subjects for exceptional actions connected with military activity for the safety of the nation.