Name: Order of Merit (Orden al Mérito) – Officer’s Cross
Country: Chile
Era: Circa 1950
Dimensions: Approx. 56.81 mm in height (including condor), 40.25 mm in width
Design Features:
Obverse:
Five-pointed star with deep blue enamel
Golden laurel wreath interwoven between arms
Central medallion with a female bust surrounded by "REPUBLICA DE CHILE"
Reverse:
Central medallion engraved with a laurel branch
Surrounding inscription reads "AL MERITO"
Suspension:
Gilt condor, symbol of Chile, with wings outstretched
Attached to a royal blue ribbon with a rosette (indicating the Officer grade)
Historical and Cultural Context:
The Order of Merit was officially created in 1929 to recognize meritorious service, particularly by foreign military personnel serving Chile.
Over time, it expanded to recognize civil and diplomatic merit as well.
The Officer’s Cross is the fourth class in the order’s hierarchy:
Grand Cross
Grand Officer
Commander
Officer
Knight
Condition:
Appears to be in good condition, with minor gilt loss
Enamels are intact and vibrant
Original ribbon with rosette still attached