Guatemala. An Order of Quetzal, Grand Cross Set, by Cravanzola, c. 1960

(Orden del Quetzal). Instituted in 1936. The Grand Cross Badge in silver gilt consists of  a five-armed cross pattée, each arm finished with ball-tipped finials, with points between the arms, the obverse bearing the arms of Guatemala within a white enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘GUATEMALA AL MERITO’; the reverse with a pale blue central medallion bearing the gilt Roman numerals ‘MCMXXXVI’ (1936) within a white enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘GUATEMALA AL MERITO’, on original sash ribbon, 59.2 mm (h) x 55.8 mm (w), extremely fine. Accompanied by the Grand Cross Star in silver with gilt rays consisting of a five pointed blue enameled star, the obverse centerpiece with white enameled border and hand painted motif, the reverse with pin assembly and makers mark for E.Gardino, Roma, 84 mm, extremely fine. In its original case of issue, marked for Gardino, extremely fine. 

Footnote: The Order of the Quetzal stands as Guatemala’s highest and rarest honor. It was instituted on April 21, 1936 and awarded for international, civic, scientific, literary and artistic services to Guatemala. The quetzal is a magnificent bird that inhabits the tropical forests of Guatemala.