Somalia, Republic. A Scarce Order of the Somali Star, I. Class Grand Cross Set, by A. Pozzi, c.1965

(Amarka Xiddiga Soomaaliyeed). Instituted February 12th, 1961. (c. 1965 issue). A fine set of a Somali Order of the Somali Star, I. Class Grand Cross Set, consisting of:

1. The Sash Badge. A five pointed silver gilt star with blue and white enameled arms and ball finials, the obverse with a circular central medallion executed in white enamels bearing a gilded leftward-trotting Jaguar, the reverse with a similar circular central medallion bearing the initials “RL” in script, suspended from a suspension device consisting of a blue enameled “S” within a laurel and oak wreath, suspended from its full-length period-original sash ribbon, marked “.800” for silver content on the suspension loop, measuring 57.0 mm (w) x 59.1 mm (l).

2. The Breast Star. A silver 24-armed star with a multi-faceted surface bearing the star of the order, consisting of a five pointed silver gilt star with blue and white enameled arms and ball finials, the obverse with a circular central medallion executed in white enamels bearing a gilded leftward-trotting Jaguar, topped by a gilded crescent moon and five-pointed star, the reverse with a tall barrel hinge, vertical needle pinback, and round wire catch, marked “.800” for silver content and maker marked “Arturo Pozzi, Roma” on the central medallion on the reverse, measuring 80.8 mm (w) x 92.2 mm (l), weighing 113.43 grams. 

3. The Presentation Case. Constructed of a lightweight wooden core, with a smooth dark blue faux leather (leatherette) exterior, the exterior of the lid with a medallion bearing the Coat of Arms of Somalia in bronze with blue, white, and green enamels, the interior of the lid in padded off-white satin, marked “A. Pozzi Roma” in gilt, with functional dual exterior metal hinges, intact fabric interior hinge cover, and functional exterior metal catch, with a recessed medal bed to accommodate the sash badge, breast star, as well as a miniature and rosette (both missing), measuring 176 mm (w) x 307 mm (l).

A scarce cased Order of the Somali Star, I. Class Grand Cross set, consisting of a sash badge, breast star, and presentation case, in better than extremely fine condition.