Vatican, Papel State. An Equestrian Order Of The Holy Sepulchre Of Jerusalem, Grand Cross Star

Instituted in 1099. Eight-pointed silver star, each point made of three longer quills with three-quilled arms in each corner, obverse centerpiece bears the Jerusalem cross in red enamel on a white background, surrounded by a green enameled wreath tied together with a red bow at the bottom, no hallmarks, 84.4 mm, enamels all intact, extremely fine condition. 

Footnote: The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem is believed to have been founded by Godrey of Bouillon in 1099, however, the Order was not brought under the protection of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem until 1847, and it wasn’t even granted legal canonical status until 1868, when it was placed under papal control by Pope Pius IX. Throughout most of its history this Order has been awarded to Catholics in recognition of their lifelong dedication and services to the Church, and the aid they have rendered to Jerusalem, monetary or philanthropic. It continues to be awarded as a modern Order, and may be conferred upon moral and charitable Christians who have worked to protect Jerusalem, are active members of the Catholic Church, and are loyal to the Pope.