Russia, Imperial. A Rare Order of St. Anna, III Class Cross for Non-Christians in Gold, by Eduard

(Ордена Святой Анны 3-й степени для офицеров не христианской). Instituted 14 February 1735 by Duke Karl-Friedrich of Holstein-Gottorp; incorporated into Russian orders 15 April 1797 by Tsar Paul I of Russia. (1855-1917 issue; 1917-present by the House of Romanov in Exile). Constructed of Gold with multi-coloured enamels,  consisting of a Cross Pattée with red enameled arms, joined through the quadrants by gilded arabesque latticework, the obverse bearing a central pebbled Gold medallion overlaid by a raised and enameled Imperial Russian eagle clutching an orb and sceptre, situated within a circular Gold ring, the reverse bearing an identical central pebbled Gold medallion overlaid by a raised and enameled Imperial Russian eagle clutching an orb and sceptre, situated within a circular Gold ring, the twelve o’clock arm topped by an integral loop retaining a suspension ring with a period original ribbon perforated with dual reinforced buttonholes, the obverse of the integral loop stamped with a Kokoshnik mark of “56” indicating 14K Gold construction, the reverse six o’clock arm bearing a maker’s mark of “ЭДУАРДЪ” for the noted St. Petersburg firm of Eduard, measuring 35.40 mm (w) x 39.62 mm (h), weighing 8.7 grams (inclusive of ribbon), a rare and exceptional example issued to non-Christian recipients in extremely fine condition.