(Orden de Santa Rosa y de la Civilización de Honduras). Instituted in 1868. (1868-1901 Issue). An eight-pointed faceted star in silver, featuring sets of diamond cut silver rays, obverse centre applique with a beautiful centrepiece consisting of a enamelled white Maltese cross with ball finials, surrounded by a detailed enamelled green laurel wreath also in silver gilt, centre medallion in silver gilt depicting the arms of Honduras in Gold, surrounded by the inscription ORDEN DE SANTA ROZA Y DE LA CIVILIZACION (Order of Santa Rosa and the Civilization) on a enamelled green border, reverse with pin assembly and dual stays, maker’s mark of HALLEY 5 CE MONTPENSIER 5 PALAIS ROYAL on the reverse cartouche, hallmarked with boars head/French assay silver hallmark denoting manufacture since 1838 on the pin and the catch, measuring 84.61 mm (w) x 84.76mm (h), weighs 97.9 grams, slight loss of enamel to green enamel wreath, loss and slight cracking to green enamel on inscription ring, one missing rivet on reverse, in overall near extremely fine condition.
Footnote: The Order of Santa Rosa and the Civilization was instituted in Honduras by President José María Medina on February 21, 1868. It was founded in five classes with different versions for military, civil and religious merit. It was founded as recognition of Honduras’s diplomatic initiatives by conferring orders on diplomats of other countries. This is the first order created in Honduras, and it was awarded by last time in 1901.