Austria, Empire. A Leopold Order, Grand Cross Star, First Model, c.1840

(Leopold Orden, Großkreuz). A silver eight-armed rayed star with a central applique consisting of a cross pattee constructed of Gold, with red and white enameled arms, along with Gold oak-leaves between each arm of the cross; the obverse with a central red enameled medallion, inscribed “F.I.A” for “Franciscus Imperator Austriae”, surrounded by a ring of white enamels, inscribed “Integritati et Merito” (Latin - Integrity and Merit); the reverse plain, with eight rounded nuts, with a vertical pinback, a barrel hinge, and a broad catch; measuring 86.37 mm (w) x 86.38 mm (h); weighing 69.8 grams; in overall better than extremely fine condition. Rare.

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.