Original Royal Order of the Star of Anjouan, 3rd Class (Commander), Sultanate of Anjouan / Comoros.
Key Information
• Country: Comoros (Anjouan)
• Order: Ordre Royal de l'Étoile d'Anjouan
• Class: 3rd Class – Commander
• Type: Neck Badge (ribbon missing)
• Dimensions: approx. 65.30 x 60.75 mm
• Material: Gilt bronze with enamel
Medal Design
Eight-pointed starburst with central enameled medallion.
Central medallion:
French inscription:
"ORDRE ROYAL DE L'ÉTOILE D'ANJOUAN – COMORES"
(“Royal Order of the Star of Anjouan – Comoros”)
Arabic inscription above the hand (reflecting Islamic heritage of the Sultanate).
Design features:
• Upright gilded hand emerging from a crescent
• The crescent originally with red enamel
• White enamel background
• Decorative beaded border around medallion
• Suspension loop for neck ribbon (ribbon missing)
The hand over crescent symbolizes protection and sovereignty within Islamic tradition.
Condition
• Noticeable loss of red enamel in the crescent below the hand
• Minor wear and small imperfections to white enamel
• Gilding with natural age patina
• Ribbon missing
• No structural damage
For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Historical and Collectible Significance
Established in 1874 by Sultan Said Omar bin Said of Anjouan, the Order later became integrated into the French colonial honors system.
The 3rd Class (Commander) was awarded to high-ranking officials, military officers, diplomats, and distinguished civilians.
This order is highly collectible among:
• French colonial decorations collectors
• African royal and Islamic orders specialists
• Sultanate and protectorate-era honors collectors
Even with enamel loss, it remains a desirable example due to its historical importance and strong visual presence.
Summary
An original 3rd Class Commander neck badge of the Royal Order of the Star of Anjouan with visible enamel loss in the crescent but retaining strong overall appearance and historical value.