Greece, Kingdom. A Rare Order of St. Olga and St. Sophia, I Class Breast Star, by Spink

(Βασιλικόν Οἰκογενειακόν Τάγμα Ἁγίων Ὂλγας καὶ Σοφίας). Instituted 1936. In silver, a rare female decoration, comprising a four point star of smooth rays, the obverse medallion featuring the handpainted saints Olga and Sophia, encircled by a blue ring inscribed ΑΓΙΑ CΟΦΙΑ - ΑΓΙΑ ΟΛΓΑ with a crown at 12 o’clock, reverse has been altered by the recipient to incorporate a two pronged pin with locking clasp, central cartouche denotes manufacture by Spink & Son, measures 66.7 mm (w) x 66.7 mm (h), weighs 33.87 grams, small area of enamel damage in the blue inscription ring, reverse pins are seized in clasp, a rare decoration in near extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Royal Order of St. Olga & St. Sophia was created by King George II in late 1935 or early 1936 to honour his mother, Queen Sophia, and his grandmother, Queen Olga. It has not been awarded by the Hellenic Republic since the Greek monarchy was abolished in 1975, but it may still be awarded by the Greek Royal House.

It was conferred exclusively upon women, and primarily upon women of royal blood. Only a small number of decorations were conferred upon non-royal Greek women for distinguished service to the Sovereign in the early years of the Order.