Panama - Order of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, Grand Cross Breast Star
(Orden de Vasco Núñez de Balboa, Estrella de la Gran Cruz)
The Order of Vasco Núñez de Balboa (Orden de Vasco Núñez de Balboa) was instituted in 1937 by presidential decree in Panama to recognize distinguished service in diplomacy and international relations. It is exclusively awarded to high-ranking officials, both national and foreign, for meritorious contributions to Panama’s diplomatic standing.
The Grand Cross (Gran Cruz) Breast Star is one of the highest grades of the order and is traditionally bestowed upon Secretaries of State and Ambassadors.
This specific piece:
Dimensions: 81.35 mm (height) x 81.07 mm (width)
Material: Silver (925 hallmark) with bronze gilt and enamel details
Condition: Chipped enamel (please refer to pictures for detailed condition assessment)
Suspension: Pin assembly on reverse
Design Features
Overall Structure
Fine eight-armed silver star, composed of multiple radiating rays, creating a prestigious and elegant design.
Obverse (Front) Details
Central medallion in bronze gilt, featuring:
An enameled white four-armed cross, representing honor and distinction.
Encircling laurel wreath in green enamel, symbolizing victory and prestige.
Superposed bust of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the Spanish explorer who was the first European to reach the Pacific Ocean.
Surrounding inscription on white enamel:
"ORDER OF VASCO NUÑEZ DE BALBOA" (Orden de Vasco Núñez de Balboa).
Reverse (Back) Details
Smooth silver surface with a pin assembly for attachment.
Silver hallmark "925", denoting its sterling silver composition.
Condition Notes
Chipped enamel please refer to pictures for details.
Silver patina and wear expected for age.
Historical Context
Purpose & Significance
Established in 1937 to honor exceptional diplomatic service.
Specifically awarded to:
Foreign ministers and high-ranking diplomats.
Secretaries of State.
Ambassadors representing their countries in Panama.
Hierarchy of the Order
Extraordinary Grand Cross (Gran Cruz Extraordinaria) – Highest rank, rarely awarded.
Grand Cross (Gran Cruz) – Reserved for Secretaries of State and Ambassadors.
Grand Officer (Gran Oficial) – Given to high-ranking diplomats and senior government officials.
Commander (Comendador) – Awarded to ministers, councils, and military officers.
Knight (Caballero) – Entry-level recognition for significant contributions to Panama.
Diplomatic & Political Importance
Frequently awarded to foreign dignitaries, making it one of Panama’s most prestigious diplomatic honors.
Reflects Panama’s strategic role in international relations, particularly due to the Panama Canal.
This Panama - Order of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, Grand Cross Breast Star is a prestigious and historically significant diplomatic decoration. Despite minor enamel damage, its sterling silver composition, exclusive Grand Cross status, and association with high-ranking diplomats make it a valuable and rare collector’s item.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel integrity, and silver patina.