(Ordem militar da torre e espada). Instituted on May 13, 1808 by Prince Regent John. Type II (1833-1917). Of British manufacture, a superb Grand Cross badge in 18kt Gold, presenting a white enamelled Maltese cross with spade shaped ball finials, a delicate green enamelled oak leaf wreath is present between the quadrants of the arm surmounting in a Gold etched tower with red enamelled centre stone, the obverse medallion features a thin blue enamelled sword piercing a tin laurel and oak leaf wreath on a Gold field, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed VALOUR LEALDADE E MERITO (Valour, Loyalty, and Merit), the reverse medallion features a white enamelled open book on a Gold field, surrounded by a blue enamelled ring inscribed PELO REI E PELA LEI (The King and the Law), unmarked by characteristic of British manufacture, measures 57mm (w) x 70.7mm (h – including the horizontally pierced integral ball), weighs 27.9 grams, worn on a partial 20th century sash featuring a bow with silver gilt hook, the badge has hairline cracks on obverse white enamel arms, minor wear to green oakleaf enamels and blue ring, otherwise it is a stunning early example of this order in near mint condition.
Footnote: The Military Order of the Tower and Sword, Valour, Loyalty and Merit (Ordem Militar da Torre e Espada, Valor, Lealdade e Mérito) was established as Military Order of the Tower and Sword in Rio de Janeiro by Prince Regent John, the future King John VI, in 1808. It was instituted in commemoration of the safe voyage of the Royal Family from Portugal to Brazil following the invasion of Napoleon's troops in 1807. Type II (1833-1917) decorations feature a wreath and sword in the obverse medallion and an open book in the reverse medallion.