A Badge of the Order in Gold, as an oval, openwork medallion bearing the Monogram “VRI” set with Diamonds, pearls and turquoises, within an oval also set with pearls; smooth reverse; on top a golden crown enriched by “jewels” set with emeralds and rubies, red enameled inner caul; the upper orb, set with a pearl; suspended to the original ladies’ bow and in the original, night-blue morocco case, with silk inner cushion and ivory velvet, fitted inner compartment.
An extremely rare order, created by Queen Victoria was founded of 31 December 1877 when ascended to the Imperial Throne of India and discontinued in 1947 at the Partition of the Empire from the British Crown; it was awarded 88 times during the reign of Queen Victoria, to ladies of the highest nobility, both British and Indian, for outstanding merits in the strengthening of the Empire, the last award being bestowed on Baroness Ampthill on 28 December 1900. Under Edward VII’s reign the order fell into abeyance until November 1909 when it was awarded, after considerable persuasion, to the Countess of Minto. It was awarded on a further 32 occasions, 21 times during the reign of George V, once during the reign of Edward VIII and 10 further times during the reign of George VI.
The last living recipient was her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, excellent condition. Dim.: 66,6 x 39,2 mm. I RR!