(Orden al Merito). Instituted 1906. Type V (1929- Present). A silver gilt decoration featuring a five point white enamelled star with ball finials, segments of wreath in each quadrant, the obverse medallion features a female right facing portrait surrounded by the inscription REPUBLICA DE CHILE, the reverse medallion features a laurel branch surrounded by the inscription AL MERITO, the badge is suspended from an Andean condor in silver gilt, measures 47mm (w) x 69mm (h – inclusive of integral ring on Condor suspension), weighs 42.7 grams (including ribbon), worn on a blue neck ribbon, enamel chips to obverse 12 and 4 o’clock arms and reverse 7 o’clock arm, dark patina, in very fine condition.
Footnote: The Order was originally established as the Medal for Merit in 1906, to reward exclusively to foreign military personnel and instructors who taught military tactics to Chilean Officers of the beginning of the twentieth century. The Order is still awarded to military personnel and civilians either national or foreigners in recognition of extraordinary and meritorious services rendered to Chile. This Order is the highest award in the country.