Jordan, Hashemite Kingdom. An Order of Independence, I Class Grand Cordon, c.1950

(Wisam al-Istiqial). Instituted in 1921. Type II (post 1948). Badge: four-piece construction, insignia in silver gilt with red and white enamels, mounted to ten-pointed star base, each star point with three faceted rays, with single faceted ray between each star point, measuring 55.5 mm (w) x 91 mm (h) inclusive of its silver gilt laurel leaves wreath suspension, on its original shortened sash with large bow-tie, the sash exhibiting sunning where the Badge and Breast Star were previously placed upon for display; and Breast Star: four-piece construction, insignia in silver gilt with red and white enamels, mounted to ten-pointed star base, each star point with three faceted rays, with a single faceted ray between each star point, maker marked "G&Co." (Garrard & Company of Birmingham, England), marked with an anchor (made in Birmingham), the British lion and date marked "O" (1963) on the reverse, measuring 85.8 mm (w) x 89.5 mm (h), vertical pinback. Intact enamels, very light contact, extremely fine. Footnote: The Order of Independence was instituted in 1921 by Emir Hussain I ibn Ali, Sharif of Mecca and later, King of Hejaz. The Order was originally created in commemoration of Arab independence and awarded to personnel in recognition of service towards achieving independence. In 1925, the Order was retained and modified by King Abdullah I of Jordan, who expanded the Order to reward civil and military personnel for meritorious service to the state. Foreigners may also be eligible for the award. It is the fourth knighthood order of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and is awarded in five grades: Grand Cordon, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight, plus a medal.