Cuba, Republic. A Star of Naval or Military Merit I Class for Other Services

(Orden del Merito Naval o Militar 1ra Clase por Otros Servicios) Order of Naval or Military Merit I Class for Other Services, for General Officers only, in silver gilt and enamels, the eight-pointed star with chiselled rays, overlaid with a white enamel Maltese cross with ball finials between the arms, superimposed on a green enamelled laurel wreath with red enamel berries, the blue enamel centre medallion bearing the intertwined letters “MM” and encircled by the motto “HONOR · VIRTUD · VALOR,” the reverse retaining its vertical hinged pinback and maker’s cartouche inscribed “ANTIGUA VILARDEBO Y RIERA · HABANA” and “FABRICADO EN CUBA,” measuring 93.3 mm x 93.3 mm, weighing 106.5 grams, with light contact marks and minor tarnishing, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Naval or Military Merit was among the highest decorations of the Republic of Cuba and was awarded to members of the armed forces for exceptional service. The I Class breast star was reserved for General Officers and Admirals. The white enamel centre cross denoted the category “Other Services,” recognizing distinguished contributions that did not fall under the specific categories of combat bravery, good conduct, or special services. Antigua Vilardebó y Riera of Havana was one of Cuba’s foremost manufacturers of orders and decorations during the Republican period.