Cuba, Republic. An Order Of Naval Merit, Knight

Instituted February 27 1912. In silver gilt, presenting a white enamel cross surrounded by a green enamel wreath, with a blue enamel anchor superimposed on the obverse, with the inscription VIRTUD HONOR VALOR and MN in the center, measures 50.0mm (w) x 50.5mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), weighs 31.4 grams (including ribbon and bar), indecipherable mark on stem of wreath, enamel chip in blue anchor and areas of re-enamelling and green lacquer in the wreath, worn on a white ribbon with a decorative bar, slightly discoloured, a scarce award in very fine condition.

Contained in the original case of issue, red leatherette exterior with crème coloured silk interior marked ANTIGUA VILARDEBO Y RIERA, HABANA, the base is a red velvet medalbed, measures 83mm (w) x 135mm (h) x 25mm (d), hinge and catch functional, light wear to exterior, in very fine condition.

Footnote: This order was awarded for exceptional merit. The white ribbon denotes this decoration was awarded for ‘other services.’