Lithuania, Republic. An Order Of Gediminas, I Class Set, By Huguenin Freres, C. 1930

(Lietuvos didžiojo kunigaikščio Gedimino Ordinas). Instituted in 1927. Type I (1928-1930). A rare set including the badge, composed of silver gilt and enamels, presenting a silver gilt cross with partial white enamel arms and three rays in each quadrant, each ray ending in a triprong, the center medallion presents the Columns of Gediminas on a red enamelled diamond shaped field, the reverse is plain other than the central diamond shaped field with the raised inscription 1918 II. 16, measures 64.35mm (w) x 68.42mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension ray), unmarked but typical of Huguenin Freres manufacture, worn on a full length yellow and brown sash with bow, scattered gilt wear on overs and reverse, enamels intact, in very fine condition. Accompanied by the Star of the Order, a nine point silver star with clusters of nine smooth rays, the obverse presenting a super imposed cross in silver gilt and white enamel arms and three rays in each quadrant, each ray ending in a triprong, the center medallion presents the Columns of Gediminas on a red enamelled diamond shaped field, the reverse presents a single pin assembly with a small central rivet attaching the obverse cross, measures 79.5mm (w) x 80.2mm (h), scattered gilt wear and dark patina on arms of the star, pin bent but working, enamels intact, a scarce set in very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Gediminas was established by the Lithuanian government in 1927 in honour of the Grand Duke Gediminas, the famous ruler and founder of the Lithuanian capital. It was suppressed during the Soviet occupation, but it was officially re-instated in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet regime and the declaration of the Republic of Lithuania.