Peru, Republic. A Distinguished Service Order, Grand Cross Star, c.1950

(Orden al Mérito por Servicios Distinguidos). Instituted in 1950 by the military junta government. 1950-present Issue. Of national manufacture, a very sparse and unique breast star in silver gilt, consisting of a mythological condor in the Chavín culture style, the top exhibiting double head, along with 13 ornamented Condor plumage on either side, displaying on the bottom the claws of the bird, the obverse centre displaying an engraved national landscape flanked by palm and laurel branches, encircled by an enameled red and white scrolls inscribed AL MERITO POR SERVICIOS DISTINGUIDOS REPUBLICA PERUANA, plain reverse with principal pin assembly, marked by maker’s cartouche of “CASA NACIONAL DE MONEDA LIMA - PERU" (National Coin House, Lima, Peru), measuring 73.10 mm x 79.34 mm, with minor toned silver, better than extremely fine.

Footnote: The Distinguished Service Order was founded in Peru by a military junta on July 18, 1950. It was confirmed on December 6, 1951, when its regulation were also approved. It was founded to recognize both Peruvian and foreign citizens for distinguished public service in fields such as arts, science, industry, and business. It is the second-highest decoration within the country.