Hawai’i Kingdom. A Royal Order of Kapiolani, Companion's Badge, c.1890

(Kapiʻolani e Hoʻokanaka). Instituted 1880 by King Kalakaua and named the Order in honor of his wife, Queen Kapiʻolani. Of French manufacture, in toned silver, consisting of a red enameled Maltese Cross featuring stylized Royal Crown in each quadrant, obverse centre presenting a double-K monogram in Gold, with motto of the order KULIA I KA NUU (strive for the summit) in Gold inlaid within white enameled surround, with a inset pearl on the 12 o'clock arm replacing the standard Gold portrait of Queen Kapiʻolani, reverse centre depicting the double-K monogram in Gold with KULIA (strive) in gold script in the white enamel surround, measuring 35mm (w) x 59mm (h - inclusive of Royal Crown with horizontally pierced ball suspension adorned by cross), with enamel loss and knocks to arm tips, fair/good.

 Footnote: This decoration was likely made by Kretly of Paris, the commissioned manufacturer of the time. The Order was granted to individuals for distinguished contributions in the fields of art and science, charity and exceptional services to the sovereign. The companion was awarded 59 times. This Order has not been awarded since 1892 and became obsolete in 1893.

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.