Italian States, Grand Duchy of Tuscany. An Order of Saint Joseph in Gold, 1st Class Knight, c.1850

(Ordine di San Giuseppe). Instituted 1807. Issued 1817-1859. A finely white-enamelled Gold six-armed cross with ball finials, exhibiting three delicate red-enamelled Gold rays between in each quadrant, surmounted by a classic royal crown in Gold, centre obverse in Gold depicting a figure of St. Joseph, surrounded by the Latin inscription “Ubique Similitus” (Everywhere the Same) on a red-enameled border, centre reverse also in Gold with inscription “ S J F 1807”(Institution Date), measuring 39.60 mm (w) x 62.31 mm (h - inclusive of ring suspension), weighing 15.6 g, have the cross above the crown professionally removed, with minor enamel losing, better than very fine.

Footnote: The order was originally founded in 1514 as an award for military, civil and spiritual merits. It was inactive until revived by Grand Duke Ferdinand III of Tuscany in 1807. Since 1817, the order was issued in three classes and was generally confined to members of the Roman Catholic faith until its abolishment in 1860. 

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.