Afghanistan, Kingdom. An Order of the Star, II Class Grand Officer, c.1927

(Nishan-i-Astour). Instituted 1901. 1919-1923 Issue. A sash badge consisting of a multiple ray eight-pointed star in silver, obverse centre in Gold exhibiting a superposed coat of arms of Afghanistan encircled by an Arabic script, reverse with an integral ring on the 12 o’clock arm, measuring 77.54 mm (w) x 76.43 mm (h), with toned silver, suspended by period sash ribbon, very fine. Accompanied by the star of the order, consisting of a multiple ray eight-pointed star in silver, obverse centre in Gold featuring a superposed coat of arms of Afghanistan surrounded by an Arabic inscription with Coran citation and the class indication, reverse with replaced pin assembly, presenting engraved silver and gold weight in Arab characters, measuring 86.95 mm (w) x 85.39 mm (h), with toned silver, good condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Star (Nishan-i-Astour) was established by Amir Abdu'r Rahman around 1901. The Order originally awarded in a single class in recognition of faithful service provided to the nation. The Order was later modified and expanded into 4 Classes by King Muhammad Zahir Shah. The Order was suspended in 1973. 

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.