Denmark, Kingdom. An Order of the Elephant, I Class Embroidered Star, c.1800

(Elefantordenen). Instituted December 1, 1693 by King Christian V. Type III. (pre-1909 Issue). An excellent quality four-point silver embroidered star comprising alternating rays of silver sequins and silver beading of increasing lengths, each ray ending in an eyelet, center obverse presents a beaded cross on a red foil background, surrounded by a silver bullion wreath with gilt details at 12 and 6 o’clock, with an outer beaded ring and silver wire ring, reverse is reinforced with pencil marks of 65b, measuring 129mm (w) x 131.5mm (h), uneven patina, loose bullion along short 8 o’clock ray, foil and beading completely intact, near extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Elephant is Denmark’s highest-ranked honour. It was established in the 15th century as a religious confraternity. In 1536, following the Reformation, the confraternity was extinguished, however a badge with an elephant on it was still awarded by Frederick II. When the order was instituted as it is now, it only allowed 30 members who were usually of very high status. In 1958, it was amended to allow the order to be awarded to both men and women.