Sweden, Kingdom. An Order Of Vasa In Gold, I Class Knight, By C.f. Carlman

(Kungl. Vasaorden). Instituted in 1772. In 18K Gold with red, white and green enamels, weighing 13.9 grams, maker marked "CFC" (C.F. Carlman, Stockholm), marked "18K" (Gold) and marked with the National three crowns (Tre Kronor) hallmark, measuring 39.5 mm (w) x 62 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, crazing evident in the white enamels on both sides of the arm at 9 o'clock, independent original ribbon, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, maker marked "C.F. CARLMAN STOCKHOLM" on the inside lid, raised platform with red felt recessed medal bed, label affixed to the bottom inscribed "R.V.O." (Riddare Vasaorden = Knight, Order of Vasa), scuffing evident on the exterior, case very fine.

Footnote: The Royal Order of Vasa is a Swedish order of chivalry, awarded to citizens of Sweden for service to state and society especially in the fields of agriculture, mining and commerce. It was instituted on May 29, 1772 by King Gustav III. It was unrestricted by birth or education and could therefore be awarded to anyone (as opposed to the Order of the Polar Star, which was intended as a reward for the learned professions). It was the most junior of all the Swedish orders. It was often awarded to Norwegian subjects of the dual monarchy until Oscar I founded the Norwegian Order of St. Olav in 1847. Since 1974, the order is no longer conferred: officially it has been declared as "dormant", along with the Order of the Sword.