Portugal, Republic. An Order Of The Red Cross, Star Of Honor, By Frederico Da Costa, C.1920

(Placa de Honra da Cruz Vermelha Portuguesa). Instituted 1918. 1918-1930 Issue. A finely manufactured multirayed silver star, with obverse centre featuring an enameled red symbol of the Red Cross in silver gilt, superposed by an enameled shield of Portugal, depicting a black enameled border inscribed by INTER ARMA CARITAS (In War, Charity), surrounded by an elegant silver gilt laurel wreath, the reverse with pin assembly, maker marked FREDERICO COSTA LISBOA on the reverse cartouche, measuring 71.25 mm (w) x 73.69 mm (h), with toned silver, very fine.

Footnote: The Portuguese Order of the Red Cross was instituted on June 22, 1918 when the Red Cross Medal was promoted to an Order with eight grades. The Star of Honour is the highest decoration awarded by the Portuguese Red Cross. It is awarded to the President of Portuguese Red Cross and may also be awarded to other individuals or groups who have provided distinguished service to the organisation. 

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.