Serbia, Kingdom. An Order of St. Sava, III Class Commander, by Kovnica Sorlini, c.1940

(Orden Svetog Save). Instituted in 1883. II Model, II Pattern (1921-1941). Saint in Green Robes. Multi-piece construction, in silver gilt with blue, white and red enamels, image of the Saint in Green Robes on the central white enamelled oval disk, dated "1883" on the reverse, unmarked, measuring 51 mm (w) x 86.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, original neck ribbon, the obverse with fine chipping evident in blue enamels on the arm at 9 o'clock, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, wooden-framed, marked "CB. CABA III." (St. Sava 3rd Class) on the lid, maker marked in Croatian "KOVNICA SORLINI VARAŽDIN" (Sorlini Mint in Varaždin) on the white cloth inside lid, raised platform with a navy blue felt recessed medal bed, dual-hinged, measuring 93 mm (w) x 160 mm (d) x 33.5 mm (h), light wear, spotting and sunning evident on the exterior, case fine.

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.