Finland, Republic. An Order of the White Rose, Commander, by Alexander Tillander & Co., c.1945

(Suomen Valkoisen Ruusun ritarikunta). Instituted in 1919. In silver with white and blue enamels, maker marked "AT" (Alexander Tillander & Co. of Helsinki) and marked "813H" (813 Hopea = Silver) on the obverse of the integral ring, measuring 50.3 mm (w) x 54.7 mm (h) inclusive of its integral ring, intact enamels, original full-length neck ribbon, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, Finnish coat-of-arms in gold-coloured ink on the lid, maker marked "A. TILLANDER" on the white satin inside lid, raised platform with a blackish-blue felt recessed medal bed, measuring 70 mm (w) x 115 mm (h) x 30.8 mm (d), the side supports below the platform have come away and remain loose, plus a black and white advertisement for Tillander inserted, case better than very fine.

Footnote: The Order of the White Rose of Finland is one of three official orders in Finland, along with the Order of the Cross of Liberty, and the Order of the Lion of Finland. The President of Finland is the Grand Master of all three orders. The orders are administered by boards consisting of a chancellor, a vice-chancellor and at least four members. The orders of the White Rose of Finland and the Lion of Finland have a joint board. The Order of the White Rose of Finland was established by Gustaf Mannerheim in his capacity as regent (temporary head of state) on January 28, 1919. The name comes from the nine roses argent in the coat of arms of Finland. The order's rules and regulations were confirmed on May 16, 1919, and its present rules date from June 1, 1940. The revised scale of ranks was confirmed most recently in 1985. The original decorations were designed by Akseli Gallen-Kallela. The swastikas of the collar were replaced by fir crosses in 1963, designed by heraldic artist Gustaf von Numers. The honour can be granted for military as well as civilian merit. The motto of the Order appears on the medallion and is "Isänmaan hyväksi" (For the well-being or benefit or advantage of the Fatherland).