Iraq, Kingdom. An Order Of The Two Rivers, Military Division, Grand Cross, C.1925

(Wasim al-Imtiaz-i-Rafidain). Instituted by King Faisal Ghazi I of Iraq in 1922 or 1927. Military Division. A Grand Cross in silver gilt, featuring a seven point red enamelled star with ball finials, and green and a white enamelled ornate ring superimposed on the arms depicting a flower motif, the obverse medallion featuring a superimposed crown on a blue enamelled field surrounded by a white ring with Arabic inscription (“The Iraqi Kingdom Loving The Country Is Faith”), the reverse presents a cypher in gilt surrounded by a white enamel ring inscribed in Arabic (“Justice Is The Basis For The Kingdome Faisal I 1345 A.H”), the cross is surmounted from a wreath with crossed sabres, measures 64.5mm (w) x 92.0mm (h – inclusive of integral ring on wreath suspension), weighs 67.7 grams, small enamel chip on obverse 3 o’clock arm, light flaking on blue enamel of medallion, otherwise enamels intact and in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by the Star of the Order of silver gilt, comprising a seven-point star with clusters of seven smooth rays, the obverse medallion featuring a seven-point red enamelled star with ball finials, and green and a white enamelled ornate ring superimposed on the arms depicting a flower motif, the obverse medallion featuring a superimposed crown on a blue enamelled field surrounded by a white ring with Arabic inscription (“The Iraqi Kingdom Loving The Country Is Faith”), the reverse offers a single pin assembly flanked by dual stays, measures 91.4mm (w) x 92.1mm (h), weighs 115.5 grams, small chips in green enamel on obverse, flaking on blue enamel of medallion, functional hinge and catch, in near extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of the Two Rivers (Wisam al-Imtiaz-i-Rafidain) was established by King Faisal Ghazi I of Iraq in 1922 or 1927. The Order was named after the two great rivers of Iraq, the Tigris, and the Euphrates, and is awarded in 4 Classes to both civil and military personnel in recognition of exceptional or meritorious services to the state.