Portugal, Kingdom. An Order of the Immaculate Conception of Vila Vicosa, Grand Cross, by Souza, c.1910
(Ordem de Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Vila Viçosa). Instituted in 1818. In silver gilt, a nine-armed star with clusters of five rays, the obverse presents a superimposed nine-arm white enamelled star with white enamelled stars in each quadrant, the obverse medallion in Gold features the cypher MA for Mary in Gold, surrounded by a blue enamel ring inscribed PADROEIRA DO REINO (Patroness of the Kingdom), surmounted by an ornate crown with red and green enamelled details along the riband, the reverse features a dual prong pin assembly with rivets for the white enamelled stars and crown, makers mark in the center denoting SOUZA 107 RUA AURBA, measures 71.78mm (w) x 95.7mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension), weighs 44.9 grams, enamel wear to white rays, evident gilt ray, in near very fine condition.

