Montenegro, Kingdom. An Order Of Danilo, Ii Class Grand Officer Breast Star, By Kretly, C.1910

(Орден Књаза Данила I/Orden Knjaza Danila I). Instituted 1853. Type IV (1893-1928). An eight-pointed beaded star in silver, encompassing with eight clusters of three smooth rays between the main arms also in silver, obverse centre presenting an enameled blue cross with nice red and white borders, the central medallion presents a Gold crowned royal cipher of Danilo I with Cyrillic surround also in Gold, reverse with principle pin assembly and two stays, maker’s cartouche for “Palais Royal No. 46 Kretly Paris”, a long-time firm associated with superb quality manufacture, measuring 69.69 mm (w) x 70.75 mm (h), with minor enamel crazing, light contact, extremely 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.