The highest distinction of the Russian Empire - the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called - is rightfully considered the most expensive award. For all the time of its existence, according to various sources, from 900 to 1100 people received it.
The founder of the Order of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called was the first Russian Emperor Peter the Great. In 1699, the great sovereign of all Russia established the first state order, which began to be awarded for special services to the Fatherland. Monarchs, ministers, dignitaries, both state and military, foreign allies of Russia, generals, diplomats, admirals could be awarded. They were awarded a blue ribbon, a sign in the form of an obliquely crossed crucifix and an eight-pointed star.
The section "On Knights" 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 count title, the title of minister, senator, ambassador, general, admiral. The governors, who provided services loyal and useful to the state for at least ten years, could also be awarded the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called. An age requirement was also introduced - the recipient of the highest award should have been at least 25 years old. In addition, the candidate for the title of gentleman of the order should be quite good in appearance. In particular, this “parameter” concerned the absence of bodily defects.
For foreigners who were honored to be awarded the Order of the Apostle Andrei, the same requirements were imposed on Russian citizens.
The charter of the order survived several editions. Amendments to the statutes of the order were made in 1720, 1729, 1730, 1744. He was handed over until 1917, and reinstated 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 state and public figures, other citizens of the Russian Federation, for special services, contributing to the greatness, glory and prosperity of Russia. The highest distinction may also be received by heads and heads of foreign governments.
Since 1998, Dmitry Likhachev, weapons designer M. Kalashnikov, Patriarch Alexy II, singer Lyudmila Zykina, poet Sergei Mikhalkov and others became the holders of the Order of St. Andrew the First-Called.
