Portugal: Order of Avis – Officer Grade (Kingdom Era) with Crown Suspension
Dimensions: Approx. 49.89 mm (including crown) x 23.72 mm
Material: Silver with green enamel and crown suspension
Era: Kingdom of Portugal (pre-1910)
The Order of Avis (Ordem Militar de Avis) is a Portuguese military order with medieval origins, dating back to the 12th century. Originally formed as the Order of Saint Benedict of Avis, it was involved in the Christian Reconquista and the defense of Portuguese territory. Like the Orders of Christ and Santiago, Avis was secularized in the late 18th century, and from then on it was bestowed as a military honor.
This example originates from the Kingdom period (prior to the establishment of the Portuguese Republic in 1910), as indicated by the royal crown suspension. Decorations from this era are rarer and highly desirable among collectors.
Medal Design:
Obverse and Reverse: Green enamel cross flory (Avis cross), highly stylized
Suspension: Topped by a detailed imperial crown, denoting Officer class
Ribbon: Triangular folded green silk ribbon with rosette — unusual variant for this order, making it a notable piece
Back: Shows similar enamel design, some wear and damage visible
Summary:
This is a rare Officer-grade badge of the Order of Avis, featuring the Kingdom-era crown suspension and a distinctive triangular ribbon with rosette — uncommon among surviving examples. An excellent piece for those collecting Portuguese royal-era insignia or religious-military orders.
Condition:
Enamel: Visible chipping and loss on both sides of the cross (see photos for close-up detail)
Metalwork: Generally well-preserved with natural patina
Ribbon: Original silk with some discoloration, stitching visible on the back
Crown and Suspension: Intact and securely attached