Somalia. An Order of the Somalia Star, Order of the Leopard, By Arturo Pozzi, c.1965

Instituted in 1961. A silver gilt five armed star with half white – half blue enamelled arms and ball finials, the center obverse medallion with a superimposed leopard on a white enamelled field, the reverse presents a monogram on the reverse, the star is surmounted by a green half laurel, half oak wreath suspension with a blue enamelled S in the center, plain reverse, silver ring marked 800 denoting fineness, measures 56.9mm (w) x 91.9mm (h – inclusive of suspension), 130.0 grams inclusive of ribbon, worn on a full length blue and white silk sash, enamels intact, minor wear, in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by the star of the order, in silver gilt, a multi-rayed star with faceted rays alternating with shorter, smooth rays, the superimposed obverse medallion features a half white – half blue enamelled star with ball finials, the center depicting a leopard on a white enamelled field, the star is surmounted by a crescent moon and star, the reverse presents a single pin assembly, central cartouche of ARTURO POZZI, ROMA, the reverse of the surmounting star is marked 800 denoting silver fineness, 80.3mm (w) x 91.6mm (h), weighs 112.7 grams, enamels intact, scattered gilt wear, remains in extremely fine condition.

Contained in its original case of issue, dark blue leatherette exterior, the center presenting the superimposed enamelled Somalian Crest, the interior is marked 1836 JOHNSON MILANO ROMA, the velvet base is removable and recessed for medals with lower compartment for ribbon, measures 175mm (w) x 308mm (h) x 45mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, discolouration to the exterior, remains very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Somali Star is the highest distinction award for military gallantry in Somalia. The Order of the Somali Star has been awarded to members of the Somali Armed Forces and foreign citizens who have conducted and exhibited great fidelity to the Somali Republic. The award comes in grades with the Order of the Leopard (formerly the Knight of the Grand Cross changed due to the adoption of Islam as the state religion) with a gold-plated badge to be worn on the band and gold-plated plate to be worn on the left chest.

SAP: 1000