Argentina, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Cross Set

(Orden al Mérito) Type I. Instituted by Decree No. 8506/46 of 1946. Sash badge of the order, in solid bronze gilt, featuring a four armed multi-ray star with squared rays in each quadrant as well as red enamel finishes, obverse centre presenting figure carrying an enameled Argentinian flag, reverse centre also in enamels presenting the coat-of-arms, measuring 80.7 m (w) x 85.6 mm (h - inclusive of integral ring), with minor oxidisation, on original sash, very fine. Accompanied by the star of the order, flat construction in solid bronze gilt, a similar a four armed multi-ray star with squared rays in each quadrant as well as red enamel finishes, obverse centre presenting figure carrying an enameled Argentinian flag, reverse with horizontal pinback assembly, measuring  89.5 mm (w) x 89.5 mm (h), remains very fine.

Footnote: Born in 1898 in Mexico, Luis Padilla Nervo developed an early passion for politics while studying law at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His career on the global stage began in 1945, when he signed the United Nations Charter on behalf of Mexico at the San Francisco Conference. Padilla Nervo made history as Mexico’s first Ambassador to the United Nations and served as a member of the United Nations Security Council. In 1951, he reached another milestone by becoming President of the General Assembly during its sixth session. After his time at the UN, Padilla Nervo held several key positions in Mexico’s government, serving in the Ministries of Education, Interior, and Labor. His distinguished career continued with his election to the International Court of Justice, where he served as a judge from 1964 to 1973—becoming only the second Mexican to hold that position. In recognition of his lifetime of achievements, he was honored with the prestigious Grand Crosses from over 30 nations celebrating his enduring contributions to diplomacy, law, and public service.