Peru, Republic. An Order Of Merit For Distinguished Services, I Class Grand Cross Set, by the Lima National Mint, c.1930

(Orden al Mérito por Servicios Distinguidos). Instituted in 1950. A Grand Cross set, in silver gilt, the badge featuring an ovular badge with numerous patterned rays, the central medallion bears mountains, waves and sunrays with white and red enamels around the outside with the inscription AL MERITO POR SERVICIOS DISTINGUIDOS REPUBLICA PERUANA, the reverse is plain with a makers mark CASA NACIONAL DE MONEDA LIMA-PERU, the badge is suspended from an ornate suspension loop, measures 54.0 mm (w) x 63.1 mm (h – inclusive of integral loop on badge), weighs 44.5 grams, enamels intact, lovely patina, worn on an original, faded full length sash, in extremely fine condition. 

The Breast Star, in silver gilt, featuring an ovular badge with numerous patterned rays, the central medallion bears mountains, waves and sunrays with white and red enamels around the outside with the inscription AL MERITO POR SERVICIOS DISTINGUIDOS REPUBLICA PERUANA, the reverse presents a single vertical pin with dual stays, measures 70.8 mm (w) x 78.5 mm (h), weighs 97.8 grams, reverse cartouche presents a makers mark CASA NACIONAL DE MONEDA LIMA-PERU, enamels intact, functional hinge and catch, in extremely fine condition.