Cuba, Republic. An Order of Ernesto Che Guevara, I & II Class

1. (Orden Ernesto Che Guevara Primera Clase), four-piece construction, 43,1 mm in diameter, weighing 32,7 grams, gilt metal with red enamel ring surrounding a high relief portrait of Ernesto “Che” Guevara in gilt, the inscription “Ernesto Guevara Che” above and below, reverse displaying the Cuban national coat of arms circumscribed “Republica de Cuba / Consejo de Estado,” horizontal pin on reverse with visible traces of adhesive around the joint, overall very fine.

2. (Orden Ernesto Che Guevara Segunda Clase), four-piece construction, 43,1 mm in diameter, weighing 32,9 grams, silvered metal with red enamel ring surrounding a high relief portrait of Ernesto “Che” Guevara in silver, the inscription “Ernesto Guevara Che” above and below, reverse displaying the Cuban national coat of arms circumscribed “Republica de Cuba / Consejo de Estado,” on the reverse there is staining and discoloration, overall fine.

Footnotes: Instituted by the Council of State of the Republic of Cuba on 10 October 1976, the Orden Ernesto Che Guevara commemorates the revolutionary leader Ernesto “Che” Guevara de la Serna (1928–1967). It is awarded to Cuban and foreign citizens for exceptional contributions to the development of the national economy, industry, and internationalist solidarity, particularly in fields reflecting Guevara’s ideals of labour, dedication, and socialist commitment. The order is issued in two classes, with the first class being the higher distinction.