Egypt, Arab Republic. An Order Of Merit, I Class Grand Cross Star, C.1985 Auction Archive indicating that examples such as

indicating that examples such as that above were of early manufacture

an eagle above with wings spread

each featuring stylized oak leaves

an uniform removed example in overall near very fine condition

White was one of nine men chosen as part of the second group of astronauts in 1962

Egypt, Arab Republic. An Order Of Merit, I Class Grand Cross Star, C.1985 Auction Archive indicating that examples such as(Nishan al Istaqaq ). Instituted in 1953. Type IV (1984 Date). Six piece construction, in silver gilt with royal blue, white and red enamels, type IV with the modern coat of arms used after 1984, marked with the Cairo Assay Office mark and a "9" and "0" for silver fineness (. 900 silver = 90% or 900 1000) on the right wing of the eagle coat of arms and on the reverse cartouche, measuring 75. 5 mm (w) x 81. 5 mm (h) inclusive of its eagle coat of arms