Tunisia, French Protectorate. An Order of Glory (Nichan Iftikhar), I Class Breast Star, by Bertrand, c. 1942

(Nichan Iftikhar). Instituted by Mustafa Pasha Bey in 1835. Type II (1855-1957). 1929-1942 Issue. A silver star consisting of a ten arm star, each arm composed of two large faceted rays with a cluster of five faceted rays in each quadrant, the obverse center presents a green enamelled field with the superimposed cypher of Ahmad II ibn Ali bearing facets as well, surrounded in a faceted ring, the reverse presents a single pin assembly with dual stays, the maker mark in the center reads ARTHUS BERTRAND PARIS, hallmarked on the tip of the pin, on the catch and on the 7 o’clock arm with a Tunisian .800 silver standard mark of 1942, measures 85.31mm (w) x 82.29mm (h), weighs 121.6 grams, enamel fully intact, light residue from adhering the cypher, good patina, right side stay slightly bent, overall better than very fine condition. Footnote:

Footnote: The Order of Glory was a Tunisian honorary order founded in 1835 by Al-Mustafa ibn Mahmud the Bey of Tunisia. The order was abolished following 1957. Initially it was awarded in a single class, however the order was reorganized and awarded in five classes following 1843 and expanded to six classes in 1882. It could be awarded to people of French nationality, and other notable foreigners with some connection to Tunisia.