(Orden al Mérito). Instituted September 4, 1906. Type V. (1929-). A Grand Cross Set in silver gilt, featuring the badge presenting a white enamelled five point star with ball finials and wreath segments in each quadrant, the obverse medallion features a right facing female bust with a surrounding inscription of REPUBLICA DE CHILE, the reverse medallion presenting a sprig with the inscription AL MERITO, the badge is surmounted by a uniface open winged Andean Condor, measures 45.7mm (w) x 69.4mm (h), weighs 36.5 grams, enamels intact, light gilt wear, worn on full length blue sash with thin red stripe at each edge, in very fine condition. The Breast Star, in silver gilt, presenting a large five point white enamelled star with ball finials, and wreath segments in each quadrant, superimposed on a silver star with 10 rounded points of clusters of smooth rays, the central medallion features the Chilean coat of arms, surrounded by a blue enamel ring inscribed ORDEN DEL MERITO CHILE, the reverse bears a vertical pin flanked by dual stays, measures 78mm (w) x 79mm (h), weighs 101.7 grams, small crack in 7 o’clock arm, light gilt wear, in extremely fine condition
. Accompanied by a boutonniere pin with a rosette.
Contained in its case of issue, featuring a brown leatherette exterior with Chilean coat of arms on the exterior lid, the interior presents a white silk interior lid marked HOURS Santiago, a removable black velvet recessed medal bed with storage component for sash sits in the bottom, measures 178mm (w) x 292mm (l) x 60mm (d), minimal wear, hinge functional, clasp catch missing, small hole in base of case, remains in near extremely fine condition.