Dominican Republic, Rafael Trujillo’s Period. An Order Of Christopher Columbus, Grand Cross, C.1950

(Orden Heráldica de Cristóbal Colón). Instituted by law on July 22, 1937, regulated in 1939. 1939-present issued. Civil Merit. A red enamel Pateé cross with concave ends and ball finials in silver gilt, featuring clusters of two-pointed rays in each quadrant also in silver gilt, obverse centre exhibiting an embossed silver bust of Christopher Columbus surrounded by a white enameled border with the inscription ILUSTRE Y ESCLARECIDO VARON DON CRISTOBAL COLON (Illustrated and Illuminated Male, Christopher Columbus), surmounted by a silver laurel wreath and ornamented loop suspension, reverse centre exhibiting enameled Dominican Republic coat of arms in silver, measuring 50.56 mm (w) x 72.85 mm (h - inclusive wreath suspension), with general lost of gilt and tarnished silver, accompanied by original full-length sash badge in red silk, fine.

Footnote: The Order of Christopher Columbus was established in Dominican Republic by decree of July 22, 1937. It is awarded in recognition of distinguished services to the nation, to humanity, and in the arts and sciences. It may be conferred on Dominican and foreign citizens, both civilians and military. It is the third-highest order in rank of the Dominican orders. 

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.