Libya, Kingdom. An Order of Independence, 1st Class Grand Cross, c.1951

Wissam al-Istikal. Instituted 1951. Sash badge of the order consisting of a multi rayed, hand filed silver star with five armed bronze gilt star affixed, with gilt elongated crown suspension, measuring 63 mm (w) x 93 mm (h -inclusive of crown suspension), well hallmarked on reverse suspenion as well as reverse star with Arabic silver hallmark for 800 silver content, star also marked with Arabic date letter (1951-53) ""ر"", on original full length sash, better than very fine. Accompanied by large star of the order in the form of a multi rayed, hand filed silver star with large bronze gilt and red enameled star affixed, bronze gilt crown separately affixed by single screw post, reverse with dual stays and pin assembly, marked on centre with Arabic silver hallmark for 800 silver content, star also marked with Arabic date letter (1951-53) ""ر"", measuring 80 mm (w) x 77 mm (h), with slight internal enamel flak to 6 o'clock arm, otherwise extremely fine. 

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.