Portugal, Kingdom. A Military Order of St. James of the Sword, Grand Collar, c.1955

(Ordem Militar de Santiago da Espada). Instituted 1170. Type III. (1918-). A collar of silver gilt and enamels, featuring 22 links in total, alternating between 10 links of a red enamelled cross within a green wreath, and 12 green enamelled wreaths with blue tie, all link reverse are plain, culminating in a small disc link with a hook on the back, marked with a Portuguese silver mark denoting .833 fineness and Lisbon manufacture, measures approximately 70 cm in length, notable chips in the green enamelled wreath, small gouge on the ring connecting the collar to the badge, remains in very fine condition. 

The Collar Badge, in silver gilt, featuring a red enamelled cross with green wreath and white banner along the lower half bearing the inscription SCIENCIAS LE TRAS E ARTES, marked on the integral suspension with a portuguese silver mark denoting .833 fineness and lisbon manufacture, reverse plain, measures 50.7 mm (w) x 103.5 mm (h - inclusive of integral wreath), weighs 41.51 grams, several enamel chips in the green wreath, remains in very fine condition. 

Footnote: The Military Order of Saint James of the Sword was first established in Spain in the 12th century. In the 13th century, the Portuguese Knights of the Order divorced themselves from the Spanish order with the confirmation of Pope John XXII in 1320. In 1789, it was secularised by Queen Mary I. It was reformed again in 1862, disbanded in 1910 following the establishment of the First Portuguese Republic, and re-established in 1918. Since 1862, it has been conferred upon Portuguese and foreigners citizens in recognition of merit in the fields of science, literature, and arts.