Ottoman Empire. An Order of Osmania, Miniature, c.1900

(Osmanlı Devlet Nişanı). Instituted in 1862 by Sultan Abdülaziz. Type II (1867-1922). Civil Division. A remarkable ball-tipped enameled green seven-armed star in silver gilt, exhibiting cluster of three beaded silver rays in each quadrant, surmounted by a symbol of the Star and Quarter Moon in Gold, with obverse centre featuring an elegant enameled red background with Arabic lettering and superimposed Quarter Moon in Gold, measuring 12.66 mm (w) x 17.33 mm (h - inclusive the Star and Quarter Moon suspension), loss of reverse central medallion, otherwise extremely fine.

Footnote: This Order was awarded to foreign and national personnel, within both civil and military realms, for extraordinary services for the Sultan. It was initially instituted in three classes, however in 1867 the Order was extended to four classes.