Sweden, Kingdom. A Rare Order of Vadstena Adliga, Ladies Cross in Gold, c. 1750

(Beställning av Vadstena Adliga). Organization of Vadstena Adliga Jungfrustift founded in 1739. (c. 1750 issue). A rare award, constructed of 23 kt Gold, consisting of a white enameled narrow Anchor Cross with hand painted petals in each quadrant presenting pink detailing, the obverse centerpiece depicts a cypher in Gold on a dark blue enameled oval, with a Gold crown superimposed on the 12 o’clock arm, reverse mirrors the obverse, suspended from a swivel ring using a ladies ribbon with horizontal pinback sewn into the bow, measuring 39.5 mm (w) x 41.9 mm (l), weighing 11.30 grams inclusive of its bow ribbon, a rare award with only light chips/flaking to the enamels from age and wear, in overall better than very fine condition.

Footnote: This order comes in one class only and was awarded to Noble ladies. Vadstena adliga jungfrustift or VAJS, was a Swedish foundation to support unmarried female nobles. In 1747, the foundation began accepting members. In 1758, it was transformed into a fund for the support of unmarried female members of the nobility.