Vatican. An Equestrian Order Of St.gregory The Great In Gold, Commander, C.1865

(Ordine Equestre di San Gregorio Magno). Instituted on 1 September 1831 by Pope Gregory XVI. A red enameled Maltese cross in Gold with ball finials, obverse centre featuring the portrait of Saint Gregory in Gold on a blue enameled field, surrounded by a Gold band inscribed “S. GREGORIUS MAGNUS,” reverse presents a hand etched design, reverse centre presents the Motto of the order “PRO DEO ET PRINCIPE” (“For God and Prince”), with a Gold surround with inscription “GREGORIUS XVI P.M.A NNO I,” suspended from dual laurels with green enamels denoting civilian division, Gold hallmarked on both laurels and integral suspension with owl denoting importation into France post 1893, also struck with likely city assay marked (crossed keys) on elongated loop with denoting manufacture in Rome, measuring 48 mm (w) x 75 mm (h - inclusive of the gold and green enameled wreath), weighing 19.9 g, includes section of period neck ribbon, with enamel wear and contact, remains good/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.