Netherlands, Kingdom. An Order of the Orange-Nassau, Grand Cross Star, c.1930

(Orde van Oranje-Nassau). Instituted on 4 April 1892 by Queen-Regent Emma. Civil Division. Likely of Dutch colonial manufactured, a multiple ray eight-pointed star constructed of silver, obverse centre in bronze gilt composing by a stenciled gilded Dutch lion on a dark-blue enameled background, encircled by an enameled white border with hand-finished outsider beaded edges, inscribed by superposed letters JE MAINTIENDRAI (I Shall Maintain) also in bronze gilt, the reverse with horizontal central pin assembly, measuring 87.42 mm (w) x 86.09 mm (h), presenting general toned silver, very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Orange-Nassau was established by Queen Emma in the name of her daughter, Queen Wilhelmina, in 1892. It was considered necessary to establish another order following the discontinuation of the Order of the Oak Crown and the Order of the Golden Lion of Nassau in the Netherlands. It is currently the most widely conferred order in the Netherlands. 

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.