Belgium, Kingdom. An Order Of The Crown, Grand Cross, By Wolfers, C.1910

(Ordre de la Couronne; Kroonorde). Instituted in 1897 by King Leopold II. In silver gilt, a sash badge consisting of an enameled white five-armed cross featuring multiple gilt rays in each quadrant, obverse centre exhibiting a superposed royal crown on a blue enameled background, reverse displaying a superposed cypher of Leopoldo II (LL), surmounted by an enameled green oval laurel wreath, measuring 54.04 mm (w) x 86.25 mm (h - inclusive of integral ball), with gilt loss and discoloration to enamels, on period sash, near very fine; accompanied by the star of the Order, a multiple ray five pointed star in silver gilt, obverse centre featuring an enameled white five armed cross with multiple rays in each quadrant, centre exhibiting a royal crown on an enameled blue background, reverse with pin assembly and dual stays, presenting maker’s cartouche of Gustave Wolfers, one of the most recognized jewelers in Belgium, measuring 84.72 mm (w) x 89.67 mm (h), presenting lost of gilt, minor roasted silver and stained enamels, near very fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Crown was established by King Leopold II by Royal Decree on October 15, 1897. It was originally created as an Order of the Congo Free State, but it was later integrated into the national hierarchy of decorations in Belgium after the Congo Free State ceased to exist as a private domain of King Leopold II in 1908. The Order has been conferred upon Belgian civilians and military personnel, and foreigners for merit in the fields of art, literature, science, commerce, and industry. 

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.