History

The Pernambuco Cross, a.k.a. First Distinguished Medal (Primeira Medalha de Distinção), was authorized by imperial decree on October 20, 1824, for the army, and on February 7, 1825, for the navy. It was created to reward military personnel who participated on the repression of the Brazilian provinces which declared a separate republic state in 1824.

The Cross was authorized with three grades according with the rank of the recipient. The Gold Cross was awarded to Generals, the Silver Cross was conferred upon Officer, while the Bronze Medal was for enlisted men.

There are known three designs of the imperial crown for this Medal. In addition, there are two designs of this Medal that differ on their reverse inscription, some have central disc in most cases, sometimes they have uniface design.