Lithuania, Republic. An Order Of The Grand Duke Gediminas, Iv Class Knight, C.1925

(Lietuvos didžiojo kunigaikščio Gedimino Ordinas). Instituted 1927. Type I. 1927-1930 Issue. A breast badge in silver, consisting of an enameled white Maltese Cross in Saltire (i.e. "X" shaped) with a cluster of three gilt rays in each quadrant, obverse centre featuring the Columns of Gediminas, (one of the national symbols of Lithuania), on a red enameled background, reverse presenting the embossed date of 16.11.1918, representing the end of the first war, measuring 49.52 mm (w) x 55.72 mm (h - inclusive of integral ring), with silver suspension bar, presenting toned silver, good/fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Grand Duke Gediminas was instituted in Lithuania in 1927, and it was amended in 1930. The Order was created to reward civil merit as well as military merit in time of peace. It was suppressed after the Soviet invasion of 1940, and it was reinstituted on September 12, 1991. Gediminas (ca. 1275-1341) was Grand Duke of Lithuania, King of Lithuanians and Ruthenians from 1316 to 1341 and may be regarded as the father of the Baltic state of Lithuania. The Towers (or Gates) of Gediminas survive as one of the national symbols of Lithuania. 

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.