Chile, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Officer Set

(Orden del Mérito). Instituted September 4th, 1906. Type V. (1929-). A neck badge, constructed of silver gilt, consisting of a white enameled 5-pointed star with ball finals and with a laurel wreath in the rightward facing bust by the representation of the national personification of Chile, surrounded by the inscription “Republica de Chile” (Republic of Chile) in capital lettering, the reverse features a similar gilt medallion with a depiction of a laurel branch circumscribed by “Al Merito” (For Merit) in capital lettering, suspended from a swiveling Andrean Condor perched atop a rounded bar, with its period original neck ribbon, unmarked, measuring 46.3 mm (w) x 67.9 mm (l), weighing 37.27 grams, a well-preserved example with pleasant patina, minor wear, in extremely fine condition. 

The Star of the Order, constructed of silver gilt, consisting of a white enameled 5-pointed star with ball finals, with eight sun-rays emanating from the center, and with a laurel wreath in the quadrants in between the arms of the cross, the obverse with a central medallion with the Chilean coat of arms, surrounded by a blue enameled ring inscribed “Orden del Merito” (Order of Merit) in gilded capital letters, the reverse is plain, with a tall barrel hinge, broad vertical pinback, and broad wire catch, along with two downward sloping clips for secure attachment to a uniform, an unmarked example, measuring 70.5 mm (w) x 70.2mm (l), weighing 84.84 grams, enamel chip to the 12 o’clock arm, light wear and verdigres, near very fine. 

The presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden frame with dark burgundy textured faux leather liner, the exterior of the lid is decorated with the coat of arms of Chile, and the interior is lined with an off-white silk liner, marked “Hours, Santiago”, the fabric hinge cover fully intact, removable blue velvet medal bed with storage compartment below, measures 120 mm (w) x 230 mm (l) x 55 mm (d), clasp at front partially broken on the lid, very fine.