Luxembourg, Grand Duchy. An Order of the Oak Crown, Grand Cross Set

(Eechelaafkrounenuerden). Instituted December 29, 1841. A lovely Grand Cross Set, consisting of the sash badge in silver, a white enamelled cross pattee, the obverse medallion featuring a crowned W on a green enamelled field, the reverse mirrors the obverse, measures 56.97 mm (w) x 62.34 mm (h - inclusive of integral suspension ball), weighs 50.36 grams, enamels intact, gilt wear around each medallion, worn on the full length green and yellow silk sash, sash showing discolouration and light wear, remains in near extremely fine condition. 

Accompanied by the Star of the Order, an eight point star with clusters of faceted rays , the obverse medallion presents the crowned W monogram on a green field, surrounded by a red ring with superimposed JE MAINTIENDRAI, encircled by a green enamelled wreath, the reverse wears a vertical pin assembly flanked by dual stays, measures 89.60 mm (w) x 90.00 mm (h), weighs 102.17 grams, enamels intact, loss of gilt wear, hinge and pin functional, remains in extremely fine condition. 

Footnote: Born in 1898 in Mexico, Luis Padilla Nervo developed an early passion for politics while studying law at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His career on the global stage began in 1945, when he signed the United Nations Charter on behalf of Mexico at the San Francisco Conference. Padilla Nervo made history as Mexico’s first Ambassador to the United Nations and served as a member of the United Nations Security Council. In 1951, he reached another milestone by becoming President of the General Assembly during its sixth session. After his time at the UN, Padilla Nervo held several key positions in Mexico’s government, serving in the Ministries of Education, Interior, and Labor. His distinguished career continued with his election to the International Court of Justice, where he served as a judge from 1964 to 1973—becoming only the second Mexican to hold that position. In recognition of his lifetime of achievements, he was honored with the prestigious Grand Crosses from over 30 nations celebrating his enduring contributions to diplomacy, law, and public service.