Portugal, Republic. A Military Order of Christ, Commander Badge

(Ordem Militar de Cristo), a silver and enamelled Commander grade neck badge of the Military Order of Christ, featuring a white enamelled cross pattée charged with the red Cross of Christ, the obverse displaying crisp enamel work with strong definition, measuring 49.2 mm x 79.9 mm inclusive of the suspension device, weighing 36.3 grams, suspended from its integral suspension, exhibiting light age toning to the silver surfaces and with small damage to the white enamel at the 9 o’clock position of the central motif on the obverse, yet remaining structurally sound and visually attractive and with its original ribbon, very fine condition.

Footnote: The Military Order of Christ traces its origins to the medieval Order of the Temple in Portugal and was formally reconstituted as a Portuguese order of merit in the nineteenth century. The Commander grade represents a senior rank within the order and was awarded to military and civilian recipients for distinguished service to the Portuguese state. The Cross of Christ remains one of Portugal’s most enduring national symbols, closely associated with the Age of Discoveries and the country’s military and religious heritage.