Austria, Imperial. An Order of Malta, Donat Cross, I Class, c.1920

(Johanniter-Malteser-Orden Donatkreuz 1. Klasse). Instituted in 1113. A gilded silver Maltese cross, three arms with white enamels, one consisting of gilded silver, with eagles between each arm of the cross, suspended from a hollow swivel crown, with a red and white enamelled Trophy of Arms suspension also of hollow construction, unmarked, measuring 49.64 mm (w) x 111.52 mm (h - inclusive of Imperial Crown), on a broad loop, decorated with glass stones, for suspension from its period original black neck ribbon, and in extremely fine condition.

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.