Order of Fidelity, Type II, Grand Cross Breast Star
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.ALB.0103.202.01.000
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
Accompanied by the impressive Grand Cordon star, composed of a hand filed six armed silver gilt star, multiple rays, with 18 silver double headed eagles individually riveted to base and each of fine detail, obverse centre presenting a black enameled double headed eagle with BESA and crossed swords, surrounded by rope and knot on black enameled background, reverse with pin assembly as well as maker’s cartouche E. Gardino Successors D. Cravanzola Rome, measuring 77x89mm, extremely fine. Scarce.
The Order was founded by Ahmed Ben Zogu during his tenure as President of Albania.
The Order was primarily conferred in recognition of outstanding service rendered to the Royal Family, Sovereign, and to the State of Albania. It was also awarded in recognition of extraordinary achievements within a broad spectrum of fields.
This Order was originally awarded in four grades, but in 1932 it was restructured and reduced to three grades, Grand Cross with Grand Cross Breast Star, Commander, and Knight.
It was amended again in 1940 during the Italian Occupation (1939-1943), and then discontinued in 1945.
The Order is also known as the Order of the Besa.
The Type II awards feature fasces on either side of the centre shield, as well as the motto "FERT" five times around the centre.
There are two models of the Type II Grand Cross Breast Star.
Model I features one small, central image of a two headed black eagle, and many small two headed eagle decorations on the star's rays.
Model II features one large, central image of a two headed black eagle.
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