Thailand, Kingdom - Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand, III Class Commander (Second Period, 1873–1941)
(เครื่องราชอิสริยาภรณ์ อันเป็นที่เชิดชูยิ่ง มงกุฎไทย ชั้นที่ 3 ประเภทผู้บังคับบัญชา)
The Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand (เครื่องราชอิสริยาภรณ์มงกุฎไทย) was instituted in 1869 by King Rama V (Chulalongkorn) as a royal decoration for Thai citizens, members of the royal family, government officials, and foreign dignitaries in recognition of outstanding service to the Kingdom of Thailand.
This particular piece is a III Class Commander Cross from the Second Period (1873–1941), before significant design changes were introduced in later years.
Specifications
Type: Commander Class (III Class) (ผู้บังคับบัญชา)
Period: Second Period (1873–1941)
Material: Gilded metal with enameled details
Diameter: 48.73 mm
Ribbon: Neck ribbon present but cut on both sides (please refer to pictures for condition assessment).
Historical Context
Origins & Purpose
Established in 1869 as a counterpart to the Order of the White Elephant (เครื่องราชอิสริยาภรณ์ช้างเผือก).
Designed for officials and dignitaries who were not eligible for the Order of the White Elephant.
Awarded for government service, diplomatic efforts, and contributions to Thailand’s development.
Evolution & Class System
Initially had seven classes, with the Commander Class (III Class) ranking below Grand Cross and Grand Commander.
The order has evolved over time, maintaining historical significance in Thai ceremonial and political culture.
Awarding Criteria
Given to both Thai nationals and foreign recipients for extraordinary service to Thailand.
Could be awarded to:
Government officials
Military officers
Diplomats and foreign dignitaries
Contributors to Thailand’s national and royal projects
Changes in 1941 and Later
In 1941, the Thai government restructured national decorations, slightly modifying the design and awarding criteria.
The later issues differ in detailing compared to this Second Period version.
This Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand, III Class Commander (Second Period, 1873–1941) is a historically significant royal decoration, representing prestige and high-level service to the Kingdom of Thailand. Despite the cut ribbon, its enamel work, intricate detailing, and rarity from the Second Period make it an excellent collector’s item.
For further authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel quality, and ribbon details.