The Order of Boyacá (Orden de Boyacá) is Colombia’s highest and most prestigious order, awarded for extraordinary service in civil, military, or diplomatic fields. It was originally established in 1819 by Simón Bolívar, following the Battle of Boyacá, the decisive battle for Colombia’s independence from Spain.
This specific piece is a Commander Class (Comendador) award, worn around the neck with a ribbon.
This specific piece:
Dimensions: 61.08 mm (height) x 56.37 mm (width)
Condition:
Right arm of the cross on the reverse has a damaged enamel repair (previous restoration attempt was not professionally executed).
Original neck ribbon with pinholes, possibly from being folded and perforated by a previous owner (please refer to pictures for details).
Historical Context
Creation & Purpose
Established in 1819 by Simón Bolívar, following the Battle of Boyacá, a pivotal victory in Colombia’s independence war.
Officially formalized as a national order in 1922, maintaining its prestige as Colombia’s top honor.
Hierarchy & Grades
The order is awarded in the following classes:
Grand Collar (Gran Collar) – Reserved for heads of state and royalty.
Grand Cross (Gran Cruz) – Senior diplomats, high-ranking officials, and military generals.
Grand Officer (Gran Oficial) – Ambassadors, senior officers, and high-ranking civil servants.
Commander (Comendador) – Awarded to military officers, prominent diplomats, and distinguished citizens.
Officer (Oficial) – Mid-ranking military and government officials.
Knight (Caballero) – Entry-level distinction for exceptional service.
Recipients & Importance
Recognizes outstanding contributions in national defense, diplomacy, science, and culture.
Frequently awarded to foreign dignitaries, diplomats, and military officials for their contributions to Colombian interests.
This Colombia - Order of Boyacá, Commander Class, remains a historically significant and highly respected award. Despite damage to the enamel and ribbon pinholes, it is still a valuable piece due to its prestige and importance in Colombia’s national history.
For further assessment and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to evaluate enamel condition, ribbon integrity, and possible restoration options.