Italian States, Duchy of Parma. A Constantine Order of St. George, Grand Cross Star, c.1875

(Sacro militare ordine costantiniano di San Giorgio). Kingdom of Italy (1861-1946). A faceted silver eight-pointed star, with obverse centre featuring a red-enamelled Latin Cross in Gold, with fleur-de-lis in the ends of its arms, depicting the Parma’s branch inscription “V A I P S ω H” (In this sign you will conquer) in Gold, superposing by a Saltire Cross in silver gilt, reverse with a typical of period pin assembly, marked on the pin “C.F. Rothe Wien A A”, marked on the reverse star with purity 800/1000 silver mark and a Rothe mark from late of 19th century and early 20th century, measuring 92.73 mm (w) x 91.93 mm (h), loss of gilt in the Saltire Cross, heavily toned, very fine.

Footnote: The origins of the Order are unclear. Some believe the beginning of this Order can be linked to Emperor Constantine I and the Battle of the Milan Bridge in 312. The best-recognized iteration of the Order arose with the amendments to the Order statutes made by Duke Francesco Farnese of Parma in 1705. The Duke’s changes were formally recognized by Pope Clement XI in 1706, and finalized as a dynastic Order of the Duchy of Parma by a Papal Bull in 1718. The Order is currently awarded, and belongs to the House of Bourbon of Two Sicilies, and Parma. 

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.