(Orden al Mérito Nacional). Instituted in 1921. Type II (1937-on). Insignia in silver with red, white, light blue, light green and dark green enamels, mounted to a silver cross and wreath base, the four arms of the cross scalloped, with ball finials on all eight points, the cross backed by a wreath bearing laurel leaves, unmarked, measuring 67.5 mm (w) x 72.7 mm (h), vertical pinback flanked by dual stays, intact enamels, extremely fine.
Footnote: National Order of Merit was instituted on October 8, 1821. It is awarded for extraordinary achievements rendered to the nation, civil or military, in six grades: Collar, Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight.

