Portugal, Kingdom. A Military Order of Saint James of the Sword, Grand Cross Breast Star, by Da Costa

(Ordem Militar de Sant'Iago da Espada). Instituted 1175. Type III (1918-). A lovely star in silver, silver gilt and enamels, featuring a 22 rayed star with clusters of three smooth rays, the central medallion, red enamelled florid cross with laurels on a white enamelled field, with red enamel surround featuring the Motto of the order CIENCIAS, LETRAS, E ARTES (SCIENCE, LETTERS, AND ARTS), with a silver gilt ornate surround, reverse with principle vertical pin assembly, marked with makers mark of J.A. Da Costa on the pin and catch, with makers mark also in text under the hinge, measures 74.24 mm (w) x 73.20 mm (h - inclusive of the enamelled sacred heart), weighs 54.74 grams, oxidation to rays, functional pin, in extremely fine condition.