Cambodia, French Protectorate. An Order of Cambodia, Knight

(Ordre royal du Cambodge. គ្រឿងឥស្សរិយយសព្រះរាជាណាចក្រកម្ពុជា). Instituted on February 8, 1864. A French issued decoration, in silver, an eight-point oval shaped star with clusters of five faceted ray, the obverse medallion presents gilded Cambodian coat of arms on a deep blue enamelled background, encircled by a red enamelled ring, the reverse is plain, the badge is surmounted by a Cambodian crown, measures 47.10mm (w) x 76.20mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension), weighs 31.7 grams, worn on original French issue white and yellow ribbon, enamel replaced with a matte red lacquer at 2 and 5 o’clock, otherwise in very fine condition.

Footnote: This Order was instituted by King Norodom I while under French Colonial rule. When awarded by French authorities, it was conferred upon individuals of at least 29 years of age, in recognition of exceptional civil or military merit, and for at least 3 years of service in Indochina, preferably Cambodia.