Chile, Republic. An Order Of Merit, I Class Commander, C.1950

(Orden al Mérito). Instituted 1906. Type V, 1929-present issued. In silver gilt five-pointed star with ball finials, in white enamels, with silver gilt laurel wreath in each quadrant, obverse centre displaying a female bust, symbol of the republican government, surrounded by the inscription REPUBLICA DE CHILE (Chilean Republic), reverse centre in silver gilt exhibiting the inscription AL MERITO (for Merit), suspended by a detailed flying condor also in silver gilt, measuring 46.89 mm (w) x 69.46 mm (h - inclusive of condor suspension), accompanied by original of time period ribbon, near to mint.

Footnote: The Order of Merit was originally instituted by the Chilean government as the Merit Medal in 1906. Just until 1929, the Medal was promoted to Order, and it were created the current grades. It is awarded to Chilean and foreign civilians, and military personnel, in recognition of meritorious service to Chile. It is the highest Chilean order. 

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.