Montenegro, Kingdom. An Order Of Danilo, I Class Star, By Vinc. Mayer’s Sohne, C.1910

(Орден Књаза Данила I/Orden Knjaza Danila I). Instituted 1853. Type II (1861-1918). A large sixteen point silver star, with each arm consisting of alternating clusters of three smooth and three faceted rays, obverse centre featuring a blue enamelled cross with red and white enamel borders, the central medallion presents a silver gilt crowned royal cipher of Danilo I with the Cyrillic inscription “КНЯЗЪ ЦРНОГОРСКІИ” surround, reverse centre with principle pin assembly, makers cartouche for “VINC. MAYER’S SÖHNE WIEN”, two assay marks on pin of “A” denoting Vienna production after 1807 and a maker’s mark for Rudolf Souval, marked near base of catch with Austro-Hungarian 1872-1922 silver purity mark of 800/1000 and partial makers mark for Rudolf Souval, measuring 72.82mm (w) x 72.45mm (h), weighing 81.9grams, minor enamel crazing, light oxidation to silver rays, very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Danilo I was the first Montenegrin dynastic and state Order established by Prince Danilo Petrović Njegoš in 1853. It was instituted to commemorate the independence of Montenegro achieved in 1852-53. This decoration is still awarded in recognition of meritorious humanitarian, scientific, artistic and pro-social achievements.