Belgium, Kingdom. An Order Of Leopold In Gold, Military Division, Grand Cordon, C.1900

(Leopoldsorde). Instituted on 11 July 1832. A quality manufactured sash badge in Gold, consisting of a large white enameled Maltese cross with a fine Gold inlaid border and ball finials, with detailed enameled laurels in each quadrant, obverse centre presenting a crowned Belgian lion on a back enameled field, with red enamel surround on Gold featuring the order Motto L'UNION FAIT LA FORCE (UNITY IS STRENGTH), reverse centre with two mirrored inlaid Gold monograms "LR" denoting the orders founded "Leopoldus Rex" for King Leopold I, red enameled surround with inlaid Gold laurels, cross is adorned by two Gold swords denoting Military Division as well as a large Gold crown suspension, measuring 65.2 mm (w) x 113 mm (h - inclusive of crown suspension with horizontally pierced ball adorned by cross), 55.4 grams, exhibiting enamel loss to reverse 3 o'clock arm, accompanied by original crimson silk sash, near extremely 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.