(Orden Ana Betancourt). Instituted 1979. A very scarce oval medal in silver gilt, obverse consisting of a facing-front superposed bust of Ana Betancourt, surrounded by two blue and white insider edges, circumscribed as well by two crossed etched palms with a five-pointed star on the top, presenting an enameled red band on the bottom inscribed by her name, reverse displaying a superposed silver medallion bearing the Cuban coat of arms surrounded by the inscription REPUBLICA DE CUBA CONSEJO DE ESTADO (Cuban Republic Council of State), measuring 35.82 mm (w) x 49.18 mm (h - inclusive integral ring), light contact, accompanied by original pentagonal ribbon with pinback, as well as its hard-shelled case in plastic with red medal bed, measuring 60 mm (w) x 18 mm (h) x 122 mm (l), light contact as well, overall extremely good condition.
Footnote: Created in 12th of December of 1979, the Order of Ana Betancourt is awarded to women including foreigners in recognition of excellent merits and extraordinary creative work in the defense of the revolutionary ideals, the anti-imperialist fight, and the liberation and independence of the towns. Anna Betancourt (1832-1901) was one of the first Cuban woman who fought against Spanish rule since the revolution broke up in 1868. She spoke out against slavery and women’s rights. She was captured by Spanish forces and exiled to Spain, where she died.