Serbia, Kingdom. An Order of Saint Sava, III Class Commander Cross, by Fran Sorlini, c.1935

Instituted 23 January 1883 by Milan I. (1921-1941 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with ball finials and blue and white enameled arms, the quadrants joined by double-headed eagles overlaid by Serbian coats of arms, the obverse with a central white enameled medallion bearing a hand-painted depiction of Saint Sava, surrounded by a blue enameled ring bearing a gilt Serbian Cyrillic inscription translating to “BY HIS TALENTS HE ACQUIRED ALL”, the reverse with an analogous central medallion with a white enameled centerpiece overlaid by a raised institution date of “1883”, within a blue enameled ring bearing gilt laurel leaves, the twelve o’clock arm with a stylized fan bearing a hollow crown and suspension loop connecting to a period original ribbon, unmarked but with the physical characteristics of manufacture by Fran Sorlini, Varaždin, measuring 51.73 mm (w) x 86.89 mm (h) (inclusive of crown suspension), weighing 55.4 grams, tarnishing of the silver features is evident, while there is some flecking of the enamels with a large chip to the centre of the obverse medallion partially obscuring the image of Saint Sava, in overall very 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.