Modena, Austrian Protectorate. An Order of the Eagle of Este, Knight Commander in Gold, c.1855

(L'Ordine dell'Aquila Estense, Croce da Commadatore). 1855-1859 Issue. Civil Divison. Pre Italian Kingdom Invasion. A superb hollow Gold Maltese cross of exquisite craftsmanship, with blue (officially referred to as “overseas azure” coloured) and white enameled arms separated by a fine golden line, and with ball finals on the arms of the cross; delicately crafted and finely detailed arabesques between the arms of the cross, with a single white enameled letter between each arm of the cross, forming the word “Este”; the obverse with a central blue enameled medallion depicting a crowned eagle, surrounded by a white ring of enamels, inscribed “Prozima Soli MDCCCLV” (Latin - Of the Sun, 1855) in gold; the reverse with a central white enameled medallion depicting Saint Contardo’s effigy, surrounded by a ring of blue enamels, inscribed “S. Contardus Atestinus” (Latin - St. Contardus Atestina); suspended from a gold hollow crown, ring, and broad loop for suspension from its period original neck ribbon; measuring 55.25 mm (w) x 78.40 mm (h) with its crown suspension; weighing 34.6 grams; with scattered extremely faint contact marks, but free from chips or cracks of any kind; in absolutely mint condition. 

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.