An unusual, gilt Silver collar of the order made by alternated seven links with “S” between cylindrical bars and seven links composed by 6 “cannonballs each; the closure, made as a larger “ball” with hook to engage in an opposite loop (here, three French “Swan” mark for pieces passed in auction); the forward centre-link, as a trophy of arms, surmounting two crossed cannon barrels with muzzles pointing down, where the order’s Badge in Gold is suspended; with white enameled arms and chiseled rims, flanked by stylized beams and a stylized spur with rotating wheel below; centre medallion with chiseled image of the saint on white enameled ground, within blue enameled outer circlet with golden inscription; white enameled reverse centre medallion with the year of institution “MDCCCXLI” in gold and blue enameld outer circlet with “GREGORVS . XVI . RESTITVIT”.
A beautiful collar chain, probably an unicum, made by a high ranking officer or specially-made for award. Dim. Length of the chain 70,0 cm. approx..; the badge, 117,0 x 58,0 mm. incl. the trophy suspension. I RR!