Iraq, Kingdom. An Order Of The Two Rivers, Knight, C.1930

(Wisam al-Imtiaz-i-Rafidain). Instituted 1922. Civil Division. In silver gilt with red, white, blue and green enamels, measuring 46 mm (w) x 63.5 mm (h - inclusive of its ball and wreath suspension), on original ribbon with intact enamels, traces of gilt remains on the reverse, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Two Rivers (Wisam Al Rafidain) was an order awarded by the Kings of Iraq and then the Presidents of Iraq. It was established in 1922 by King Faisal I ""For Merit"" and named after the two rivers, the Euphrates and the Tigris, that flow through the middle of the country. The Order was initially awarded by the Kings of Iraq between 1922, when the monarchy was established, and 1958 when the monarchy ended. It was continued by the Presidents of Iraq through the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. It was awarded in two divisions, Military and Civil, initially issued in four classes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th, along with a medal. On May 24, 1959, the Order (now known as Wisam Al Rafidain) was awarded "" For exceptional service to Iraq"", now issued in five classes: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th.

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.