A Grand Cross set of the 1st type: Sash Badge in Gold with white enameled cross and green enameled, narrow, oak and laurel wreath; centre medallion in polished gold with head of King Otto facing right; pale-blue enameled outer circlet with the Greek inscription “OTHON KING OF THE HELLENES” in gold lettering; pale-blue enameled reverse medallion with white cross centred by the blue-white colours of Bavaria and golden inscription around; small upper loop and royal crown suspension with internal loop to secure the cross; large suspension ring and original sash ribbon; Breast Star with chiseled and pierced rays; gold centre with inner medallion of polished gold and applied, enameled cross as the badge’s reverse; pale-blue enameled outer circlet with chiseled inscription; chiseled, gold borders.
A most rare and historically interesting set with the badge of the earliest type made in Bavaria and one of the earliest metal stars ever seen, to take place of the fragile embroidered ones.
Dim.: the badge, 122,0 x 75,0 mm.; the star, 80,5 mm.
Founded in its first form in 1829, the last year of Greece’s war of independence, and with decree by the State’s Council in the name of King Otto in 1833, it was destined to reward any outstanding merit towards the Country; its first pieces were made in Bavaria (Germany), then from all the best jewellers in Europe. We are allowed to say that this award, ranks amongst the world’s most beautiful orders. I RR!