(Ordem Imperial do Cruzeiro). Instituted December 1 1822. Type I. A rare early Imperial Order of the Southern Cross Grand Cross, presenting a silver gilt five armed Maltese Cross with white enamel arms and ball finials, between the arms sits a half laurel half oak leaf wreath, the obverse center medallion features a blue enamel field with a cross made of white enamel stars, surrounded by a Gold ring with dark blue enamel inscribed BENEMERENTIUM PRAEMIUM, the reverse center medallion features the left facing bust of Simon Bolivar, surrounded by a Gold ring with blue enamel inscribed PETRUS I BRASILIAE IMPERTOR, the badge is surmounted by a large Brazilian crown, measures 60.70mm (w) x 90.3mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned surmounting crown), weighs 35.1 grams, worn on a segment of a grand cross sash, including bow, minor enamel wear, a very early and scarce badge in extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The Imperial Order of the Southern Cross (Ordem Imperial do Cruzeiro) was founded by Emperor Pedro I in commemoration of the recent independence of Brazil from the Portuguese crown, and on the occasion of his coronation as the new Emperor of Brazil. The first Order's Knights were accepted the same day. It was the first Brazilian Order without relation to the Portuguese crown. Type I decorations were awarded to men who fought in the Paraguayan War (1860-1870) and to allied army.