(Ordem Militar de Avis). Instituted in 1175 by King Afonso Henriques. Type II (1894-1910 Issue). A silver eight-pointed faceted star, obverse centre featuring an enamelled green florid cross in silver gilt, surmounted by an enamelled red Royal Crown, presenting an enamelled Sacred Heart of Christ on the 12 o’clock arm, the reverse with dual pronged pinch pin assembly, maker’s cartouche of J.A. DA COSTA LISBOA, measuring 81.8mm (w) x 91.3mm (h), weighs 88.2 grams, very pleasing tone with all enamels intact, in mint condition.
Footnote: The Military Order of Aviz (Ordem Militar de Avis) was established around 1175 by King Afonso Henriques, the first King of Portugal, right after he took control over the city of Evora when this was part of the Almohad Caliphate Empire. Type I decorations were conferred from 1789 to 1894, Type II decorations were conferred from 1894 to 1910, and Type III decorations have been conferred since 1918.