Hawaii, Kingdom. An Order of the Star of Oceania, IV Class Officer, c.1890

(Ka Hoku o Osiania e Hookanaka). Instituted December 16th 1886 by King Kalakaua I. (Issued 1896-1890). A five-point green enamelled star with white enamelled borders, with clusters of seven silver faceted rays in each quadrant, surmounted by a red enamelled Hawaiian crown with six small rays emanating outwards, centre obverse presenting a torch (light) rising from the ocean, symbolizing the Hawaiian Islands, with six five-sided stars in the sky, with red enamelled surround presenting gilt inscription KA HOKU O OSIANIA (The Star of the Ocean), centre reverse is plain, measures 54mm (w) x 73mm (h - inclusive of crown suspension and horizontally pierced integral ball), central medallion has rotated, the green enamelling begins at 12 o’clock, light enamel crazing, small chips in red enamel surround, on original ribbon with brooch pinback, near very fine condition.

Footnote: The Royal Order of the Star of Oceania was created by King Kalakaua on December 16, 1886, originating from his vision of a confederation of independent Polynesian nations. This Order was awarded to individuals for distinguished service to the sovereign in the promotion of Hawaii throughout the islands. There are 7 classes: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer, Companion and two under grades of medals. The Star of Oceania was conferred on 25 individuals by King Kalakaua and was last awarded on July 26, 1890. This was the only order that King Kalakaua did not confer himself.

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.