Hesse-Darmstadt, Grand Duchy. An Order of Philip the Magnanimous, I Class Knight with Swords, c.1917

(Orden Philipps des Großmüthigen, Ritterkreuz I. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 1 May 1840. Type II. (1849-1918 Issue). A white enamelled cross pattée in silver gilt with crossed swords affixed to body centre, obverse with a light blue enamelled medallion bearing the leftward facing bust of Philip the Magnanimous in Gold, surrounded by a white enamelled ring inscribed SI DEUS NOBISCUM QUIS CONTRA NOS (IF GOD IS WITH US, WHO IS AGAINST US), reverse with a light blue enamelled medallion bearing a rampant lion in multi-coloured enamels, surrounded by a ring of white enamels, inscribed LUDOVIUS II MAGN DUX HASSIAE INSTIT, measuring 39.37 mm (w) x 44.48 mm (h), with minimal loss of gilt on swords, on a loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, and in very fine condition.

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.