1983.290.1 a-c; Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum

The Order of Al-Kamal, Award for Merit

Artifact ID1983.290.1 a-c

Object Type Medal

Date before October 1975

Medium gold, enamel, ruby, sapphire, turquoise, leather, fabric, ribbon, metal

DimensionsOverall (box) H 2 in x W 5 in x D 9 3/4 in (5.1 cm x 12.7 cm x 24.8 cm )
Overall (pendant) H 1 3/4 in x W 2 in (4.4 cm x 5.1 cm )
Overall (brooch) H 3 in x W 3 in (7.6 cm x 7.6 cm )

Physical Description(a) A gold star pendant decorated with blue enamel and rubies hangs from a blue and gold ribbon.

(b) A gold star pin is decorated with blue enamel, rubies, sapphires, and turquoise stones.

(c) A rectangular red presentation box lined with white fabric.
Historical NotePresident Anwar Sadat of Egypt gifted this commemorative medal and matching pin to First Lady Betty Ford during his state visit in October 1975. The medal represents the Order of Al-Kamal, an Egyptian award of merit first instituted by Sultan Husain in 1915. The Order is conferred upon women in recognition of distinguished contributions or services made towards the advancement of Egypt or humanity. It is commonly given to the wives of heads of state.Additional Details

Custodial History NoteA foreign official gifted the item to First Lady Betty Ford during the Ford Administration. It was presented to her and was maintained at the Executive Office of the President until its transfer to the National Archives in September 1981 for deposit with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum.

National Archives Catalog CollectionGerald R. Ford Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 620931)

National Archives Catalog SeriesHead of State Gifts Given to President Gerald R. Ford (74639696)

Use Restriction Status Unrestricted

Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.

Collections

Head of State Gifts