2nd Class Set of the Order. Neck Cross, 51,5 x 47 mm., GOLD, the arms with bulbous red enamel bordered in black, black enameled centre medallion with polychrome enameled coat of arms, within moulded, golden border, the reverse, similatrly enameled, but black enameled centre medallion, bearing cyrillic inscription with the date of institution of the Order, September 27th, 1782, round upper loop, struck with Russian gold marks, original suspension ring and neck ribbon. Breast Star, 89 mm., Silver, with smooth, polished rays, black enameled centre with golden cross flanked by the initials “C”, “P”, “K”, “B”, red enameled outer circlet within double, moulded and chiseled gold border, with the Order’s motto “ПОЛЬЗА ЧЕСТЬ И СЛАВА” (Benefit Honour and Glory), in silver, chiseled lettering, gilt reverse, struck with Russian silver marks and the maker’s mark of Messrs. Eduard, vertical, pin.
A beautiful set of great rarity and particularly fine manufacture, from the second half of the 19th Century, excellent condition. I RR!