Italian States, Sicily Kingdom. An Order of Francis I, Knight Commander, c.1820

Of high quality Austrian manufacture in silver gilt with a white enameled Maltese cross, fleur-de-lys in each quadrant, centre with Initials of Francis I with green enameled laurels and blue enameled motto ring, reverse with silver gilt centre with institution date in black enameling, hand detailed suspension arms with elongated commander ribbon loop, integral ring marked VR denoting Austrian silver inventory mark of items manufactured between 1810-1824, measuring 39 mm (w) x 46 mm (h - inclusive of integral ring), without crown, with enamel flaking, otherwise very fine.

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.