Romania - Order of the Star of Romania, 5th Class (1932-1947) (Ordinul Steaua României - Clasa a V-a, 1932-1947)
General Information
Country: Romania
Award Name: Order of the Star of Romania (Ordinul Steaua României)
Class: 5th Class 
Period: 1932 - 1947
Material: Silvered bronze with red, green, and blue enamels
Dimensions: 64.79 mm (including crown suspension) x 42.79 mm
Condition: Extremely fine (enamel intact, well-preserved details).
Markings: Unmarked, but consistent with known issues from the period.
The Order of the Star of Romania is the highest civil order and the second-highest state decoration after the defunct Order of Michael the Brave.
Originally awarded in six grades:
Grand Cross with Collar
Grand Cross
Grand Officer
Commander
Officer
Knight (5th Class)
This 5th Class award corresponds to either Officer or Knight rank, typically bestowed for distinguished military or civilian service.
Design Features
Overall Construction:
Made of silvered bronze, featuring detailed enamel work in red, green, and blue.
Includes a crown suspension, symbolizing the monarchy’s patronage.
Central Medallion:
The gilded cypher of King Carol I (Charles I), founder of the order, is prominently displayed in the center.
This royal monogram signifies the monarchical heritage and high prestige of the order.
Cross Design (Tatzenkreuz):
The Formée Cross (Tatzenkreuz) is enameled in blue, symbolizing loyalty and nobility.
Surrounding the cross is a green laurel wreath, representing honor, courage, and victory.
Eagle Motifs:
Between the arms of the cross, images of an eagle are featured.
The eagle is a key symbol of Romanian sovereignty, reflecting the military and civil service contributions of the awardees.
Reverse Details
Central Inscription:
The reverse medallion features "1877" marking the year of the order’s establishment by King Carol I.
This date commemorates Romania’s War of Independence (1877-1878), during which Romania gained sovereignty from the Ottoman Empire.
Ribbon & Suspension:
Red ribbon (for military).
Crown suspension indicates a monarchical-era award, placing it firmly between 1932-1947 before the abolition of the monarchy in 1947.
The Order of the Star of Romania (5th Class, 1932-1947) is a historically significant and highly collectible royal decoration. With its silvered bronze construction, intact enamel, and crown suspension, this piece represents Romania's highest civil honor from the royal era.