Breast Badge, 42,0 mm., with 10 diamonds for a total of 0.168 ct., GOLD, the obverse with the Sultan’s tughra within flowers and bows, “1801” at the base, the reverse with Crescent, this, set with 9 diamonds of different sizes and Star within flowers and bows; with original chain-and-hook suspension, in the original rectangular, fitted, dark brown morocco case of issue, with blue velvet and purple silk interior compartment.
An extremely rare piece, superb condition. See Edhem Eldem: “Pride and Privilege”, Istanbul, 2004, p. 40–44, for the fascinating story of the creation and bestowal of this decoration, awarded by order of the Sultan, to British officers, in different sizes according to their rank: this was perhaps one of the first Turkish decorations in the European “style”; being this piece with diamonds, it was awarded to an outstandingly important officer or dignitary. I RR!