History

The Military Order of St. George was founded by Duke Charles Louise of Lucca in 1833, under the name "Order of St. George for Military Merit." It was later transferred to the Duchy of Parma when Lucca was annexed in 1847.

This Order was awarded to military personnel in recognition of meritorious actions, distinguished services to the crown of Lucca, or for loyalty to the Duke himself.

The Order consisted of three grades, but only the I Class Knight was worn with a Breast Star. Recipients were first awarded the lowest grade (III Class Knight) and had to gradually earn the higher Order grades.

Brilliants could be added to the I Class Knight and II Class Knight to recognize a recipient for extraordinary merit.

The obverse inscription translates to "To Military Merit," and the reverse inscription features the initials of the Order's founder and the foundation year "CL 1833"

The I Class Knight was awarded to Senior Officer Commanders and the reigning Duke of Lucca.