Russia. An Imperial Order of Saint Alexander Nevsky, Grand Cross Star, by Eduard, c.1910

(Орден Святого Александра). Instituted 1725 by Catherine I of Russia. Type III. (1855-1918 Issue). Of superb period quality, an eight point silver star, each arm composed of clusters of five individual smooth rays with braided borders, obverse centre featuring the crowned Latin monogram of St. Alexander on a white enamel roundel, surrounded by the Order’s motto “ZA TRUDY I OTECHESTVO” (For Labours and Fatherland) on red enamel background with two green laurel branches crossed and crowned, reverse centre presents central principal pin assembly, reverse well marked with a zolotniki silver fineness number "84" (875 Silver), and maker marked on back plate BA and "ЗДУАРАЪ" denoting Eduard-VD (Varvara Dietwald) of St. Petersburg manufacture, also well hallmarked with kokoshnik mark on pin, and both 3 and 9 o'clock arms, measuring 92 mm (w) x 92 mm (h), 80.6 grams, with a pleasing patina, slight enamel flake in red surround, 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.