(Βασιλικόν Τάγμα Γεωργίου Α'). Instituted January 16 1915 by King Constantine I. A Grand Cross sash badge, composed of silver gilt, featuring a white enamel Latin cross with a laurel wreath segment in each quadrant, the obverse center presenting a red enamel medallion with the royal cypher of George I, surrounded by a white enamel ring inscribed ΙΣΧΥΣ ΜΟΥΗ ΑΓΑΠΗ ΤΟΥ ΛΑΟΥ (The people’s love is my strength), the reverse is silver gilt with the dates the order was established in a ring (1915) and the years of the King’s reign 1863-1913, the badge is suspended from a large silver gilt crown, measures 46.92mm (w) x 79.95mm (h – inclusive of crown and cross adorned integral ball), weighs 41.8 grams, ring marked 925 denoting silver quality, worn on an original full length ribbon, enamels intact, scattered gilt wear, dark patina, overall very fine condition.
Footnote: The Royal Order of George I was established by King Constantine I on January 16, 1915, to honour the memory of his father, King George I. It was suppressed when the Second Hellenic Republic was established in 1924, but it was later reinstated when the Greek monarchy was restored in 1935. It was permanently suppressed when the Greek monarchy was abolished in 1973 and was replaced by the Order of Honour in 1975. It was conferred in two divisions upon Officers and state officials for distinguished service to the Greek nation. The Military Division, added in 1921, features decorations with crossed swords.