Instituted 1956. Type II (1967-). In silver gilt, a grand cross set presenting a 10 point star featuring a two five point stars each with a white enamel border and undulating rays between each arms, the obverse medallion features a right facing portrait of Bernard O’Higgins, surrounded by a ring inscribed BERNARD O’HIGGINS CHILE, the reverse is plain, measures 45.2mm (w) x 51.1mm (h), weighs 21.1 grams, enamels intact, light wear dark patina, in extremely fine condition.
Accompanied by the breast star, presenting a 10 point star featuring a two five point stars each with a white enamel border and undulating rays between each arms, the obverse medallion features a right facing portrait of Bernard O’Higgins, surrounded by a ring inscribed BERNARD O’HIGGINS CHILE, the reverse features a horizontal pinback assembly with trap closure, measures 72mm (w) x 72mm (h), weighs 60.1 grams, enamels intact, light wear marks, in near extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The Order of Bernardo O'Higgins was originally created in 1956 as an adjunct to the Order of Merit. The former consists of the two lower grades of the latter, I Class Bernardo O'Higgins Medal and II Class Bernardo O'Higgins Medal. In 1967, the Order was separated, and it was promoted to Order. The order is quite rare.