Luxembourg, Kingdom. An Order of Oak Crown, II Knight Grand Officer Star, c.1910

(Eechelaafkrounenuerden). Instituted 1841. Type II. 1858-present Issue. Exhibiting the manufacturing characteristics of Dutch maker Joh.F.V.D.Horst, featuring a faceted Maltese Cross in silver, with obverse centre exhibiting superposed crowned cypher of Wilhelm II King of the Netherlands in bronze, with fine starburst green enameled background, surrounded by enameled red border inscribed by JE MAINTIENDRAI (I Will Maintain) in silver gilt, encircled by a thinly enameled green oak wreath also in Gold, reverse with principle pin assembly, with Dutch tax hallmark in the form of a script letter "I" denoting minimum fineness of .250 since used between 1906 until 1953, measuring 67.87 mm (w) x 68.10 mm (h), with enamel loss to laurels, laurels slightly loose, toned silver, otherwise near very fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Oaken Crown was established by Wilhelm II King of the Netherlands and Grand Duke of Luxembourg by Grand Ducal Decree on December 29, 1841. It is the oldest Order in Luxembourg. It is currently conferred upon civilians and military personnel of Luxembourg, as well as foreigners, in recognition of exceptional achievements. 

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.