(Ordem do Mérito Militar). Instituted 1946. A complete I Class set, consisting of an enameled white gilded-framed Latin Cross with Fleur de Lis ends in silver gilt, the obverse featuring nicely red enameled Latin cross on the centre, the reverse with double-sided design, surmounted by an attached Portuguese tower also in silver gilt, measuring 55.05 mm (w) x 83.62 mm (h - inclusive of tower and integral ring), suspended by original ribbon with ornament neck suspension; accompanied by the star of the order also in silver gilt, composed of twenty-two multi-rayed sharp arms, the obverse presenting the badge of the order beneath of the inscription MERITO MILITAR (Military Merit), on a red enameled background circumscribed by a gilt laurel wreath, reverse with pin assembly, measuring 69.92 mm (w) x 70.34 mm (h), presenting silver oxidation; accompanied by the knight’s badge in silver gilt, measuring 30.45 mm (w) x 51.56 mm (h - inclusive of tower and integral ring), suspended by original breast ribbon with horizontal hanger and pinback, ribbon presenting an attached miniature badge, measuring 12.01 mm (w) x 14.46 mm (h); accompanied by the ribbon bar with a miniature enameled badge of the order, measuring 31.35 (w) x 12.78 mm (h), with a back horizontal hanger with pin, as well as by original pin ribbon with rosette shape; finally, the set is completed by a hard-shelled case in beautiful dark blue, lid exterior with an elegant gilt plaque with the inscription MERITO MILITAR 1a CLASSE (Military Merit 1st class), lid interior with jewelry label of Casa Bastão Lda, Portuguese jewelry with more than 40 years in the service of the Portuguese government, in particular its Army, measuring 150 mm (h) x 270 mm (w) x 45 mm, recessed and slotted bed, light contact on the exterior plaque, with functional double catch, set with overall light contact, extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The order was instituted in Portugal on May 28, 1946 in four classes to be awarded to military personnel who display exceptional military qualities and virtues that merit public respect and acknowledgement.