Serbia, Kingdom. Order of St. Sava, IV Class Officer, III Model (1921-1941), Cased

(Orden Svetog Save). Instituted in 1883. Saint in Green Robes. In silver gilt with blue, white and red enamels, gilt centrepiece rings, painted obverse centrepiece, dated "1883" on the reverse, measuring 41.5 mm (w) x 68 mm (h) inclusive of its crown and laterally-pierced ball suspension, intact enamels, original triangular ribbon with hook and eye, extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, marked "CB. CABA IV." (St. Sava IV Class) on the lid, inside lid in white cloth, padded and maker marked "HUGUENIN FRERES & Co. Médailleurs LE LOCLE (SUISSE)" in French and Serbian, base with a recessed medal bed in black felt, measuring 65 mm (w) x 120 mm (h) x 25 mm (d), spotting evident on the bottom, case near extremely 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.