French Protectorate, Laos. A Million Elephants and the White Parasol Order, Knight, c.1915

(Lan Xang Hom Khao). Instituted 1909. An early and large French manufactured example in silver gilt, obverse with the characteristic Laos tri-elephant design in white and red enamels, seven layered crown with red enameled ribbon suspension, measuring 38.2 mm (w) x 66 mm (h - inclusive of horizontally pierced ball suspension), hallmarked on ring with unknown French maker FR with arrow in diamond, with minor enamel loss, near very fine.

Footnote: The Order was created by King Sisavang-Vong by royal ordinance of 1 May 1909 and amended on 20 November 1927 to reward exceptional service and could be awarded to both civilians and military. It was awarded to both Lao citizens and to French serving in Laos. Given the quality manufacturing of this particular example, as well as its unusually large size, it is likely an initial Knight, awarded prior to 1927. 

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.