Ottoman Empire. An Order Of The Medjidjie, I Class, C.1870

(Mecidiye Nişanı). Instituted in 1851. Civil Division. A silver seven-point star with clusters of three faceted rays with a star and crescent moon between each cluster, the obverse medallion in Gold presents the Tughra of Ottoman Sultan Abdulmejid (2 July 1839 – 25 June 1861), surrounded by a red enamelled ring with four superimposed rectangles inscribed “In the name of the God, the forgiver, the merciful” surrounded by a ring of red enamels, inscribed with “You have provided protection - You are proven to be correct - 1268 - You have crossed” in golden Arabic lettering, star is suspended from a red enamelled crescent moon and star suspension, the reverse features a center disc that is inscribed “Darphane-i Amire” for the Official Ottoman mint, measures 64.1 mm (w) x 95.0 mm (h – inclusive of crescent suspension and integral suspension loop), weighs 46.7 grams, very minor enamel blemishes, oxidation to silver but remains in pleasing tones, an extremely fine I Class badge.

Accompanied by a modern full-length sash.

Footnote: This Order was conferred upon Turkish citizens and foreigners in recognition of extraordinary civil and military services to the state. It was also awarded for military merit as well as civil merit.