Austria, Empire. An Order of of Leopold, Grand Cross Star, by André Alckens, c.1820

"Österreichisch-kaiserlicher Leopold-Orden, Großkreuz). Instituted on 8 January 1808. First Model. (Issued 1808-1847). An superb, period embroidered star, featuring a “Leopold Cross” constructed of red foil, bordered by silver foil, and decorated with silver embroidery, with oak leaves of pressed gold applied between the arms of the cross, the central medallion presents the initials “F I A” over a red-enamelled field, circumscribed by a white-enamelled ring bearing the inscription “INTEGRITATI ET MERITO” (“FOR INTEGRITY AND MERIT”), attached to a forty-eight rayed star, mounted on a backing of paper, stamped with the information for maker André Alckens, measuring 10.6 cm (w) x 10.8 cm (h), worn however remains very fine.

Footnote: In 1847, they standardized metal stars (with smooth rays) instead of embroidered stars. A similar star is displayed on page 59 of ""Austrian Orders and Decorations"", Part I/Volume 2, by Georg Ludwigstorff.

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.