Order of Merit, Grand Cordon
CATEGORY: Version
SKU: 01.VEN.0101.101.01.000
Estimated market value:
Estimated market value:
Of French manufacture, a six-pointed white enameled star in silver gilt, surrounded by an enameled green wreath, obverse centre featuring a Gold medallion depicting the coat of arms of Venezuela, encircled by an elegant enameled blue border with the inscription REPUBLICA DE VENEZUELA (Republic of Venezuela), the reverse in white enamels depicting the inscription 29 AGOSTO 1861 (29 August, 1861) encircled by the inscription HONOR AL MERITO (Honor in Merit) on a blue enameled border, suspended by an enameled green laurel wreath also in silver gilt, hallmarked with boars head denoting French manufacture of 800 silver post 1838, measuring 55.52 mm (w) x 91.98 mm (inclusive of laurel wreath suspension and integral ring), with loss of gilt and green enamels, presenting bent suspension, fair. https://www.emedals.com/south-america/venezuela/venezuela-republic-an-order-of-merit-grand-cross-badge-c-1880
The Order of Merit (Orden al MErito) has a blurry and striking history. The exactly date of its creation is unknown. The most acceptable theory is that the Order was founded by President Jose Antonio Paez in Caracas in 1861. Presumably, the Order was conferred upon Venezuelans and foreigners, mainly heads of state and high military ranks, in recognition of outstanding merit in benefit of the Venezuelan state.
Order's bestowal documents, decrees, or official statutes, are unknown. However, there are fair amount of this pieces on the market. The makers of this Order were mainly European, who probably made versions that never were granted.
Order's classes were three according with the pieces known in the market, these are: Grand Cordon, Grand Official, and Knight. The pieces were made main in solid gold and some of them features European hallmarks and maker's marks.
Comments
Sign in to comment and reply.
COMMUNITY
ACCOUNT
Scroll Top
