Serbia, Kingdom. An Order Of St. Sava, I Class Grand Cross, C.1930

(Orden Svetog Save). Instituted in 1883. II Model, II Pattern (1921-1941). Saint in Green Robes. In silver gilt with blue, white and red enamels, gilt centrepiece rings, painted obverse centrepiece, measuring 52 mm (w) x 85.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown and laterally-pierced ball suspension, intact enamels, accompanied by its original frayed full-length sash incorporating a decorative moiré pattern, with a piece of the sash having separated from the main body, extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, wooden-framed, marked "CB. CABA I." (St. Sava 1st Class) on the lid, maker marked "HUGUENIN FRERES & CO. MEDAILLEURS LE LOCLE (SUISSE)" on the white satin inside lid, raised platform with a black velvet recessed medal beds for the badge and breast star, the latter having been lost to time, dual-hinged, scuffing and soiling on the exterior, adhesive repair evident in two corners, wear in the fabric overlying the hinged area, missing its latch, case fair.

Footnote: The Order of St. Sava was a decoration of the Kingdom of Serbia established by Milan I on January 23, 1883. The Order of Saint Sava was established originally to recognize civilians for meritorious achievements to the Church, to arts and sciences, the royal house and the state. In 1914, a change was made permitting military personnel to receive the honour for military merit. The Order of St Sava was then awarded by the King of Yugoslavia until the abolishment of the monarchy in 1945. It was awarded in five grades: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight.