Sweden. An Order of the Sword, Commander Breast Star, Type II, c.1880 by Kretly, Paris

(1871-1919); In characteristic French style, four armed hand filed cross with a gold centre with blue enamels, 3 gold crown, maker marked "No 46 KRETLY PALAIS-ROYAL PARIS" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 68.5 mm (w) x 68.5 mm (h), vertical pinback flanked by dual prongs, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Sword is a Swedish order of chivalry created by King Frederick I of Sweden on February 23, 1748, together with the Order of the Seraphim and the Order of the Polar Star. It is awarded to officers, and was originally intended as an award for bravery and particularly long or useful service, but eventually became a more or less obligatory award for military officers after a certain number of years in service. There were originally three grades, Knight, Commander and Commander Grand Cross, but these were later multiplied by division into classes: Commander Grand Cross, Commander 1st Class, Commander, Knight 1st Class and Knight. The order also encompasses two medals: Badge of the Sword (reserved for Non-commissioned officers) and Medal of the Sword (reserved for Underbefäl, lower commanders of the ranks of corporal to Sergeant).