(Τάγμα του Σωτήρος). Instituted in 1829. Type II. (1863-1924; 1935-1984 Issue). A Gold Maltese cross with white-enamelled arms, with green-enamelled laurels and oak leaves in each quadrant, the obverse centre presenting the head of Jesus Christ, blue enamel surround Η ΔΕΞΙΑ ΣΟΥ ΧΕΙΡ, ΚΥΡΙΕ, ΔΕΔΟΞΑΣΤΑΙ ΕΝ ΙΣΧΥΙ (Thy right hand, O Lord, is become glorious in power, Exodus, 15:6), reverse centre presenting a white cross on a blue background (the coat of arms of Greece), with surround inscribed Η ΕΝ ΑΡΓΕΙ Δ´ ΕΘΝΙΚΗ ΤΩΝ ΕΛΛΗΝΩΝ ΣΥΝΕΛΕΥΣΙΣ (The IV National Assembly of the Hellenes at Argos), measures 45.50mm (w) x 72.61mm (h - inclusive of its crown suspension), weighing 27.3 grams (including ribbon), on loop for suspension from period original neck ribbon, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The Order of the Redeemer was established by the Fourth National Assembly in 1829 in the final year of the Greek War of Independence, although it was not officially instituted until the decree of May 20, 1833. Its name and form were chosen by the Assembly as a reminder that the Greek nation had been liberated during the war with divine assistance. It has remained the highest order of merit in Greece since its creation. The Type II decorations have been awarded since 1863 and feature the image of Jesus Christ instead of Otho I - a change which prompted the portrait side to be worn as the obverse. Since the abolition of the Greek monarchy in 1974, the Type II decorations have undergone additional changes. From 1975-1984, the decorations did not feature a surmounting crown, and since 1984, they have been surmounted by a wreath of oak and laurel.