Colombia, Republic. An Order of Military Merit 'José María Córdova', I Class Grand Cross Star

(Orden al Mérito Militar 'José María Córdova'). Instituted in 1950. Two-piece insignia in silvered silver with red, black and gray enamels, mounted to an eight-pointed silver gilt star base, each star point with five emanating rays, maker marked "MECO LTDA. BOGOTA" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 79.8 mm (w) x 80.5 mm (h), vertical pinback, contact marks evident on the centrepiece around the general's bust, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Military Merit 'José María Córdova' was instituted on December 23, 1950 and is awarded for outstanding acts of courage or other services, in six grades: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer, Knight and Member.