The Order of Vasco Núñez de Balboa (Orden de Vasco Núñez de Balboa) is a prestigious Panamanian order, established on 1 July 1941 (Ley No. 94 de 1 de julio de 1941) to recognize distinguished diplomatic services and contributions to international relations. However, its original institution dates back to 1937 under presidential decree, making it one of Panama’s most significant honors.
This specific Commander Class (Comendador) issue, dating from 1937–present, is a silver-gilt and white enamel decoration, designed as a four-armed cross with green enameled laurels in each quadrant.
This specific piece:
Dimensions: 61.83 mm (height, including integral ball) x 57.82 mm (width)
Material: Silver-gilt with white and green enamel details
Condition: Minor loss of gilt, extremely fine
Ribbon: Original neck ribbon included
Design Features
Obverse (Front) Details
Four-armed cross, with green enameled laurel wreaths in each quadrant.
Central medallion in white enamel, featuring a gilded silver bust of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the Spanish explorer credited with discovering the Pacific Ocean from the Americas.
Encircling inscription: "ORDER OF VASCO NUÑEZ DE BALBOA".
Reverse (Back) Details
Unenameled medallion featuring an engraved map of Panama.
Encircled by the inscription "REPUBLICA DE PANAMA" (Republic of Panama).
Suspension & Ribbon
Suspended from a ball finial, integral to the cross.
Accompanied by the original neck ribbon, confirming its Commander Class status.
Historical Context
Creation & Purpose
Established in 1937 by presidential decree.
Officially recognized under Law No. 94 of July 1, 1941.
Specifically awarded for meritorious service in diplomacy and international relations.
Hierarchy of the Order
The Order is divided into five ranks:
Extraordinary Grand Cross (Gran Cruz Extraordinaria) – Highest level, rarely awarded.
Grand Cross (Gran Cruz) – Reserved for top-tier diplomats and heads of state.
Grand Officer (Gran Oficial) – For ambassadors and high-ranking government officials.
Commander (Comendador) – Exclusively granted to Ministers, Council members, distinguished tradesmen, and Colonels.
Knight (Caballero) – Entry-level award for significant contributions to Panama.
Diplomatic & Military Recognition
Primarily a diplomatic order, awarded to foreign officials, ambassadors, and international figures.
Commander Class is exclusively for high-ranking individuals, making it a highly prestigious award.
This Panama - Order of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, Commander Class (1937-Present) is a prestigious diplomatic honor, recognizing exceptional service in international relations. With its intricate enamel design, silver-gilt construction, and rare Commander Class status, it remains a valuable and historically significant collectible.
For further assessment and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to evaluate condition, enamel integrity, and ribbon quality.