Romania, Kingdom. An Order Of The Star Of Romania, Military Division, Commander, C.1940

(Ordinul Steaua României). Instituted on 10 May 18778 by Prince Carol I. Type II. (1932-1947 Issue). Military Division. A large hollow sash badge in silver gilt, consisting of a blue enamelled Romanian Cross with an eagle in each quadrant with crossed swords piercing through the center of the eagles, gilded obverse centre featuring the cypher of Carol I on a red enamelled background, surrounded by an enamelled blue border inscribed by IN FIDE SALUS (IN FAITH IS THE SALVATION), encircled by a green laurel wreath, reverse presents 1877 inscribed on red enamelled background, surrounded by a laurel wreath with green enamels, surmounted by a large gilded Royal Crown, measures 62.7mm (w) x 91.2mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned integral ball atop crown), weighs 57.9 grams, obverse medallion has been recently reaffixed, red enamel is heavily chipped, heavy gilding, otherwise in near very fine condition.

Footnote: Prior to the establishment of the Order of the Star of Romania in 1877, another order had been envisioned in 1863 under the rule of Alexander Ioan Cuza. Cuza did not, however, officially institute the order before he was deposed by a coup in 1866. The awards that had been conferred were considered to be personal gifts and never state decorations. The Order of the Star of Romania was established by Prince Carol I, the future King Carol I, in 1877 in the first official act of the sovereign nation of Romania. The Order was later suppressed in 1947 after the abolition of the Romanian monarchy, but it was reinstated in 1998 following the collapse of the communist regime. It is currently conferred upon Romanian citizens in recognition of meritorious service to Romania. It had also been awarded to foreign military personnel in the First and Second World War.