Baden, Duchy. An Order of Berthold the First in Gold, Grand Cross with Swords, c.1900

(Orden Berthold des Ersten, Großkreuz und Bruststern mit Schwertern). Issued 1896-1918. The Grand Cross Breast Badge consisting of an eight-pointed silver gilt star, with crossed swords attached to the star via four hollow rivets visible on the reverse; the obverse with a round central red enameled medallion depicting Berhtold with a flag and shield on a horse in gold, surrounded by a gold pebbled ring, a broad white enameled ring that is inscribed “GERECHTIGKEIT IST MACHT” (German - Justice is Might), surrounded by an additional gold pebbled ring; the reverse plain, with a vertical pinback, and a functional hinge/catch assembly; measuring 87.71 mm (w) x 87.98 mm (h); weighing 69.4 grams. The Grand Cross Sash badge consisting of a gold Maltese cross with ball finals and with white enameled arms and crossed swords and a crown between each of its arms; the obverse with with a central red enameled medallion depicting the royal cipher of Friedrich Wilhelm Ludwig within a gold ring; the reverse with a similar central red enameled medallion, with a gold royal crown; suspended from swivel gold arabesques, a gold hollow crown, and a large gold loop for suspension from its period original sash ribbon; measuring 69.02 mm (w) x 69.06 mm (h); weighing 41.0 grams; a beautifully preserved set, in virtually mint 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.