Russia, Empire. Emirate of Bukhara. An Order of the Noble Bukhara, 1st Class Star, c.1895

3rd Degree Star. Emir Abdul-Ahad bin Mozafaffer-Ed-Din-Khan. Of quality Russian Imperial manufacture, a silver gilt star with eight multirayed arms, obverse centre applique with blue enameled script cartouche denoting issue for non-Muslim, centre monogram in turquoise enamel, reverse with pin assembly, hallmarked with industry unknown makers mark as well as 84 Kokoshnik mark, measuring 84 mm (w) x 82 mm (h), with toned silver and slightly compressed centre applique, better than very fine.

Footnote: This order first came into prominence in 1881 when Emir Mozafaffer-Ed-Din-Khan presented Alexander II with the Grand Cross of the order. After this event, the Noble Order of Bukhara was divided into eight classes, one with diamonds, three classes in gold, and three in silver. At first, the insignia was only issued as a star, but in 1893 it was supplemented with a badge and sash. Bukhara came under rule of the Russian Empire in 1875, but was ruled by an Emir who was under the direct supervision of Russian officials. This Order was traditionally awarded to Russian advisers as well as military and civilian leaders of Bukhara. The Order was abolished in 1917. 

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.