France, July Monarchy. A July Cross, C.1830

(Croix de Juillet). Instituted 1830 by King Louis-Philippe I. A silver star consisting of three white enameled arms with ball finials, with a wreath of green enameled oak leaves in each quadrant as well as in each knee, surmounted by a mural crown, obverse centre presents three aureoles enameled in the national colours, red, white and blue with the outer red ring inscribed “PATRIE ET LIBERTE”, and the Gold centerpiece presents a left facing French cockerel, centre reverse also demonstrates three aureoles, the outer red ring inscribed “DONNE PAR LE ROI DES FRANCAISE” with the inner white ring bearing “1830” and the center blue enameled circle inscribed “27, 28, 29 Juillet”, silver hallmarked with swan import mark on reverse bow, measures 39mm (w) x 52mm (h - inclusive of surmounting crown and integral suspension), with extensive enamel damage and loss, on original ribbon with slight discolouration, fair condition.

Footnote: The Cross was awarded for devotion to the cause of liberty during the Revolution of 1830. A total of 1789 Crosses were awarded. 

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.