Mexico, Empire. An Order of the Eagle, Superior Class Star with Rubies & Emeralds, by Halley, c.1875

(Orden Imperial del Aquila Mexicana). Instituted by Maximilian I on January 1, 1865. Of fine French manufacture and exhibiting the stylistic characteristics of mid to late 19th Century French manufacture, in silver with four principle arms with a fleur-de-lys design, with a large cushion cut emerald set at each arm tip, clusters of seven rays in each quadrant, obverse centre of superb quality and attention to detail, featuring a Gold Mexican Imperial Eagle at centre, crowned with green enamel details, with silver gilt background, with initial surround composed of 46 square step cut rubies, a secondary surround composed of 35 square step cut emeralds, reverse with dual stays and large pin assembly, makers cartouche of Halley, Paris, hallmarked on pin with boars head denoting French small silver guarantee post 1838, measuring 94.2 mm (w) x 94.00 mm (h), missing catch, with minor enamel loss to obverse, principle rays slightly crimped, toned silver, otherwise near extremely fine.

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.