History

The Order of the Red Lion and Sun (Jamiyat Shir va Khorshid Sorkh) was established circa 1922 by the Iranian Red Lion and Society during the reign of Mohammad Reza Shah as Iran's secular counterpart to the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement. The Order was conferred in 5 Grades to recognize humanitarian services which advance the goals of the Red Lion and Sun, International Red Cross, or Red Crescent Societies. Meritorious acts which preserve world peace was also eligible for the award. The Order was made inactive following the Islamic Revolution of 1979, however, the Red Lion and Sun symbol is still recognized as an official emblem by Geneva Conventions.

The Grand Cordon Breast Star was conferred as the highest grade and may also be known as the Special Grade Breast Star. It is uncertain if the Grand Cordon Grade features both a Breast Star and Badge. It is believed that the Grand Cordon was presented to HIH Mohammad Reza Shah himself, but more research is needed to confirm.

There may be additional versions of the Grand Cross Breast Star which vary by composition.

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