History

The Star of Humahuaca (Estrella por Humahuaca) was instituted in Argentina by the United Provinces on April 5, 1817. The Star was awarded in recognition of those who participated in the siege and capture of a Spanish military base in Humahuaca March 2, 1817.

The composition of the Star denotes the rank to the recipient; the gold Star was awarded to Generals while the silver Star was for Officers.

The shape is a 5-pointed star; each arm represents one of the heroes of this battle. Starting from the top, and clockwise, they are: Manuel Eduardo Arias, José G. Ontiveros, Juan P. Mariscal, Manuel del Portal, and Hilario Rodríguez.

The Humahuaca Star features an obverse inscription that translates to "March 2, 1817 in Humauaca."