Chile, Republic. An Order of Merit, II Class Grand Officer Star, c.1940

(Orden del Mérito). Instituted in 1906. Type VI (1936-date). Insignia in bronze gilt with red, white and blue enamels, mounted to a three-piece base in bronze gilt with white enamels, unmarked, measuring 78.3 mm (w) x 79.3 mm (h), vertical pinback flanked by dual stays, chipping and/or repair evident in the white enamels on four of the star points, while the fifth star point at 7 o'clock exhibits crazing, very fine. Footnote: The Order of Merit was instituted on September 4, 1906 and is awarded for meritorious service provided by foreigners to the Republic of Chile, five grades: I Class Grand Cross, II Class Grand Officer, III Class Commander, IV Class Officer and V Class Knight.