India. An Order Of Azad Hind, I Class Star With Case, By Rudolf Souval

Instituted 1942 by Subhas Chandra Bose. (1943-1945 issue). Constructed of silver with gilt, the obverse consisting of an eight-pointed radiant star, with a central gilt applique bearing a raised tiger’s head, circumscribed by an inscription of “AZAD HIND” with laurel leaves, the reverse with a barrel hinge and vertical pinback meeting a flat wire catch, maker marked “RUDOLF SOUVAL, WIEN”, measuring 60.06 mm (w) x 59.80 mm (h), weighing 30.5 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a light wooden frame with a faux golden-brown leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilt embossed tiger’s head, the interior with a padded white satin-type lid liner and intact hinge cover, maker marked “RUDOLF SOUVAL, WIEN VII STR. D. JULIKÄMPFER 23”, with a slotted dark grey satin medal bad, opening with a functional metal hinge, measuring 82 mm (w) x 82 mm (l) x 26 mm (h), with material fatigue evident to the case, in overall near extremely fine condition.