The highest insignia of the Russian Empire - the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called - is rightfully considered the most expensive award. Over the entire period of its existence, according to various sources, from 900 to 1100 people received it.
The founder of the creation of the Order of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called was the first Russian emperor Peter the First. In 1699, the great sovereign of All Russia established the first state order, which began to be awarded for special services to the Fatherland. Awarded could be monarchs, ministers, dignitaries, both civil and military, foreign allies of Russia, generals, diplomats, admirals. They were given a blue ribbon, a sign in the form of an obliquely crossed crucifix and an eight-pointed star.
The section "On the Cavaliers" of the draft charter of the order explained what requirements candidates for the highest state award must meet. First of all, they must have a princely or county title, the title of minister, senator, ambassador, general, admiral's rank. Governors who have provided loyal and useful services to the state for at least ten years could also be awarded the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called. An age limit was also introduced - the recipient of the highest award had to be at least 25 years old. In addition, a candidate for the title of Knight Commander of the Order must be good in appearance. In particular, this “parameter” concerned the absence of bodily disabilities.
For foreigners who were honored to be awarded the Order of the Apostle Andrew, the same requirements were imposed as for Russian citizens.
The charter of the order has gone through several editions. Amendments to the statutes of the order were made in 1720, 1729, 1730, 1744. It was awarded until 1917, and was restored in 1998 by decree of the President of the Russian Federation of July 1, 1998 No. 757. In accordance with the statute, the Order of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called is awarded to statesmen, public figures, other citizens of the Russian Federation, for special merits, contributing to the greatness, glory and prosperity of Russia. Heads and heads of governments of foreign states can also receive the highest distinction.
Since 1998, Dmitry Likhachev, arms designer M. Kalashnikov, Patriarch Alexy II, singer Lyudmila Zykina, poet Sergei Mikhalkov and others have become holders of the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called.
