Antique Russian Imperial 56 Gold Order Of St. Vladimir 3rd Degree Rare

Antique Russian Imperial 56 Gold Order Of St. Vladimir of the third degree was established in the Russian Empire in 1782 by Emperor Catherine II. It was created to reward senior officers of the army and navy for distinction in battle and loyalty to their service. The order was named in honor of St. Vladimir, Prince of Kyiv, who converted to Christianity and became the first ruler of Rus' to preach this religion.

The Order of Saint Vladimir of the third degree was one of the most prestigious orders in the Russian Empire. The order was awarded for distinction in battle, for loyalty to service and for merits in science, art and literature.