Mexico, II Empire. An Order of the Mexican Eagle, Knight, c.1866

(Orden del Águila Mexicana). Instituted 1865. Second Mexican Empire. 1865-1867 Issue. A rare and attractive silver award with fine detail, consisting of a right facing Imperial Mexican eagle, resting on enameled green cactus, clutching a green enameled snake in its talons as well as a holding both a sword and ceremonial mace, reverse exhibiting detailed wings and feathers, adorned by impressive Imperial Mexican crown with enameled jewels and internal red centre, measuring 28.43 mm (w) x 53.63 mm (h - inclusive of the crown suspension and integral ring), pleasingly toned silver, accompanied by original ribbon, an excellent example, near mint.

Footnote: The Order of the Mexican Eagle was founded in Mexico by Maximiliano I in 1865, to reward outstanding merit and extraordinary service to the state and to the emperor. The Order was suppressed in 1867, just after his overthrow. 

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.