Cuba, Socialist Republic. An Order of Félix Varela, I Class c.1990

(Order Félix Valera). Instituted 1981. A very scarce double-ended four-armed silver star, superimposing on a slightly gilded band, the obverse centre bearing a superposed gilded bust of Félix Varela facing front, surrounded by an enameled white band with his name inscribed on the top, reverse centre etching a Cuban coat of arms surrounded by the inscription REPUBLICA DE CUBA CONSEJO DE ESTADO (Cuban Republic Council of State), measuring 40.71 mm (w) x 43.88 mm (h - inclusive integral ring), light contact, suspended by original pentagonal ribbon with pinback, accompanied by original ribbon bar with pinback, as well as by its hard-shelled case in plastic with green-thread medal bed, measuring 61 mm (w) x 19 mm (h) x 122 mm (l), presenting contact on the surfaces, overall very fine.

Footnote: Awarded in two grades to Cuban and foreign citizens, and cultural collectives. The Order of Félix Varela recognizes outstanding achievements in favour of the values of national and universal culture. It is Cuba's highest honour for cultural merit. Félix Varela (1788-1853) was born in Cuba. He spoke out against slavery and colonialism of the Spanish government, reason why he emigrated to United States where he promoted religious tolerance and human right.