Thailand, Kingdom. A Magnificent Most Noble Order Of The Crown, 2Nd Class Knight Commander, C.1880

Type I. A Magnificent set of insignia in gold comprising breast star and breast badge in fitted case of issue. Breast badge. Gold and red, green and dark blue enamel badge in the form of a standing elephant facing left on a plinth with ornate scroll surround, with loop for suspension of elaborate form with links referencing the Great Crown of Victory set with ten rubies, with bar for ribbon suspension; the reverse plain; on original ribbon bearing a rosette; width 24mm (0.94 inch), height 52 mm (2.04 inches), weight 11.4 grams (0.4 ounce). Breast star. Circular gold insignia of lotus blossom form with thirty-two petals alternately of red and green enamel; the face with a circular central deep blue enamel medallion bearing the Thai crown in gold and in red and green enamel within a border of forty-one brilliants; the reverse plain with pin for wear; diameter 62mm (2.44 inches), weight 93.4 grams (3.29 ounces). In original wooden fitted case of issue, a silver standing elephant centrally on the lid within an inlaid stringing rectangular border, missing single section of ebony trim, of masterful craftsmanship, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order was established as long ago as 29 December 1869 by King Mongkut Rama IV as a reward for service to the state and may be awarded to both Thai (Siamese) citizens and foreigners. The form of the insignia was changed to its current design in 1948 and this example is of the first type, prior to that date. The elephant form of the breast badge is highly unusual and possibly indicates that this is a very early example.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.