Panama, Republic. An Order of Vasco Nuñez de Balboa, Grand Cross Star, c.1925

(Orden de Vasco Nuñez de Balboa). Instituted 1937. 1937 - Present Issue. A fine eight-armed star in silver, composed of multiple rays, obverse centrepiece in bronze gilt consisting of an enamelled white four-armed cross, surrounded by a detailed laurel wreath in green enamels, centre depicting a superposed bronze gilded bust of Vasco Nuñez de Balboa surrounded by the inscription ORDER OF VASCO NUÑEZ DE BALBOA on a white enamelled background, the reverse with pin assembly, silver hallmark denoting fineness of 925, measuring 81mm (w) x 81.2mm (h), weighs 67.7 grams, minor loss of red enamel to obverse wreath, otherwise enamels intact, light wear to silver rays, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Vasco Nuñez de Balboa was founded in Panama by presidential decree in 1937 to reward nationals and foreigners for meritorious services rendered to the country in the fields of diplomacy and international relations. The Grand Cross is exclusively granted to Secretaries of State and Ambassadors.