Greece, Kingdom. A Scarce First Type Cased Order of the Phoenix, I. Class Commander Set, by Arthus Bertrand, c. 1930

(Τάγμα του Φοίνικος). Instituted May 13th, 1926. (Type I: 1926-1935). A scarce first type cased Order of the Phoenix, I. Class Commander Set, consisting of:

1. The Grand Officer Breast Star. An eight-pointed silver star consisting of seven rays per arm with a beautifully detailed Phoenix in gilt superimposed centrally on the star, the reverse is plain, with three visible rivets holding the Phoenix to the badge, with a tall barrel hinge, banjo-style vertical pinback, and broad rightward-opening catch, with two downward-pointing stabilizing pins on the reverse, unmarked, measuring 75.1 mm (w) x 76.1 mm (l), weighing 39.26 grams.

2. The Commander Cross. A four-armed cross constructed of silver gilt with white enameled arms, the arms of the cross inscribed “ETTA” in gilt, and bearing a large Phoenix in gilt superimposed centrally on the cross, on a fixed loop and large swivel ring (previously repaired/replaced) for suspension from its full length period-original neck ribbon, unmarked, measuring 58.5 mm (w) x 61.6 mm (l), weighing 37.28 grams.

3. The Presentation Case. Constructed of a lightweight wooden base, with a burgundy faux leather (leatherette) exterior, the exterior of the lid bearing an image of a Phoenix in gilt, the inside of the lid lined with padded off-white satin, maker marked “Arthus Bertrand, Paris”, with functional dual exterior metal hinges, intact interior fabric hinge cover, and functional exterior metal catch, with a recessed medal bed to accommodate the cross and star, measuring 115 mm (w) x 225 mm (l). 

A fine example of this scarce Type I Order of the Phoenix I. Class Commander Set. With moderate patina on the breast star and with moderate discoloration to the white enamels on the neck badge, in overall better than very fine condition.