The Order of St. Vladimir

A 1st Class Cross of the Order in Gold, from the 1st half of 19th Century with bulbous, red enameled and black-filleted arms; centre medallion with finely done coat of arms of St.Vladimir in miniature enameling, within grooved, golden outer circlet; black enameled reverse centre medallion with still readable inscription, although darkened due to the natural oxydation of the thin silver foil used to make it; round loop struck with Russian mark and round suspension ring, as usual on early crosses; with original silk ribbon.
A beautiful, very rare early cross, when 1st class badges were not as large as those made in the 2nd half of 19th Century; with attractive, old patina, excellent, untouched condition.
Dim.: 52,0 x 47,0 mm. I RR!