Sweden, Kingdom. An Order Of The North Star, Ii Commander In Gold, C. 1900

(Kungliga Nordstjärneorden). Instituted in 1748. Type II. Likely of French manufacture and composed of 18K Gold, this badge presents a white enamelled Maltese cross with ball finials and a crown in between each arm, the center medallion presents a small white enamel five point star on a blue enamel field with the inscription NESCIT OCCASUM (It Knows No Descent), a decorative ornate suspension connects the cross to a surmounting crown between the knee of the 12 o’clock cross, the royal crown is decorated in white, red and green enamel, attached to a suspension ring and French double folded loop, reverse mirrors the obverse, measures 54.93mm (w) x 79.73mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned laterally pierced integral ball), weighs 27.8 grams (without ribbon), a French owl hallmark on the suspension ring denotes imported Gold items from noncontractual countries from 1893, worn on a replacement black ribbon, very slight cracks in white enamel, reverse medallion has one blue enamel crack beside the “N” of Nescit, otherwise better than extremely fine condition.

Footnote: This Order was founded by King Frederick I on April 28, 1748. Apart from the Order of the Seraphim, it is the only other Order currently conferred in Sweden. From 1748 to 1975, the Order was conferred upon Swedish citizens and foreigners for achievements in the fields of science, art, and literature, as well for meritorious service to the state. Since 1975 it has been conferred exclusively upon members of the Swedish Royal Family and foreigners. It is most often conferred upon junior foreign royals and holders of foreign offices. Prior to 1975, the Order was worn on a black ribbon, but since 1975, the Order has been worn on a blue ribbon with yellow edges.