Yugoslavia. An Order of the Flag, I Class Grand Cross Awarded to Mexican Senator Mena Brito

(Socialist Federal Republic); Sash Badge: In die-stamped silver gilt, measuring 111.7 mm (w) x 62.5 mm (h), attached via two large prongs and stitched in place to the full-length sash ribbon; and Breast Star: three-piece construction, silver gilt with red, white and blue enamels, unmarked, 79.3 mm (w) x 82.5 mm (h), vertical pinback. Intact enamels, scattered gilt wear on the Sash Badge, extremely fine. Accompanied by three 37 mm (w) x 11 mm (h) ribbon bars, each of which has a 1st Class silver gilt and red enamelled star clasp affixed, along with a letter addressed to Mexican Senator Antonio Mena Brito from Gustav Vlahov, the Ambassador of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in Mexico (the typewritten inscription translated from the Spanish: "Mexico, D.F. October 30, 1963. / Mr. Senator Antonio Mena Brito, Senate Chamber, Present / Mr. Senator: It is a pleasure for me to inform you that during the visit of the President of the Socialist Federalist Republic of Yugoslavia, Josip Broz Tito, to Mexico, it was approved to bestow upon you the decoration of the "Order of the Yugoslav Flag, Grand Cross." Such title is provided in recognition of your notorious personal merits and your efforts to improve the sincere friendship that brings together our people and governments. Entrusted with the duty of delivering this decoration, it is an honour for me to place it in your hands with no delay. The corresponding decree to this award, I will deliver immediately upon its arrival from Belgrade. Given the situation, I take the chance to remind you, with sincere confidence, my most loyal and distinguished rewarding. Gustov Vlahov", signed Gustav Vlahov in black ink, on a white paper stock, 184 mm (w) x 266 mm (h), fold marks).

Footnote: The Order of the Yugoslav Star was the highest National order of merit awarded in Yugoslavia. It was divided into four classes. The highest class, the Yugoslav Great Star was the highest state decoration awarded in Yugoslavia. The order was mostly awarded to foreign heads of state for the development and strengthening of peace and cooperation between nations. It was established by the President of Yugoslavia, Josip Broz Tito, on February 1, 1954 and had three Classes. The Law on Decorations was amended on March 1, 1961 and from then on, the Order had four Classes: the Yugoslav Great Star (the highest decoration in SFR Yugoslavia); the Yugoslav Star with Sash (before 1961, the Order of the Yugoslav Star, 1st Class, the 6th highest decoration in SFR Yugoslavia); the Yugoslav Star with Golden Wreath (before 1961 Order of the Yugoslav Star, 2nd Class, the 14th highest decoration in SFR Yugoslavia); and the Yugoslav Star on Cravat (before 1961, the Order of the Yugoslav Star, 3rd Class, the 24th highest decoration in SFR Yugoslavia). The Order of the Yugoslav Star was also the second highest order of merit in Serbia and Montenegro.