Belgium, Colonial. A Royal Order of the Lion, Grand Officer, c.1900

(Dutch: Leopoldsorde, French: Ordre de Léopold). Instituted 1891. A large silver star consisting of a Maltese Cross with hand filed details and ball finials, clusters of three rays in each quadrant, obverse centre in silver gilt presenting a gilt crowned Belgian lion on a blue enamel background, with Motto surround TRAVAIL ET PROGRES (Work and Progress), with blue enamel ribbon bordering, separately affixed Belgian gilt crown, reverse with dual stays and large pin assembly, measuring 84 mm (w) x 82 mm (h), with blue enamel loss, stoned, very fine overall.

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.