Sweden, Kingdom. A Royal Order of the Sword, Commander with Ball Finials, c.1950

(Kungliga Svärdsorden). Instituted in 1748. (1856-1975 Issue). In silver gilt with blue and white enamels, both centrepieces in Gold, measuring 55 mm (w) x 79.2 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, intact enamels, original full-length neck ribbon, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Royal Order of the Sword is a Swedish order of chivalry and military decoration created by King Frederick I of Sweden on February 23, 1748, together with the Order of the Seraphim and the Order of the Polar Star. It is awarded to officers, and originally intended as an award for bravery and particularly long or useful service, eventually becoming a more or less obligatory award for military officers after a certain number of years in service. There were originally three grades: Knight, Commander and Commander Grand Cross, but these were later multiplied by division into classes. The Order of the Sword in peacetime had five classes: Commander Grand Cross, I Class Commander, Commander, I Class Knight and Knight. The motto of the order is in Latin: "Pro Patria" (For Fatherland).