An extremely rare Chilean Order of Merit, Type One, First Class, Gold Grade medal, made from solid 18k gold and weighing 23.15 grams. This early issue dates to circa 1906, a period when the order was awarded for exceptional civil and military service to the Republic of Chile.
The Order of Merit of Chile (Orden al Mérito de Chile) was established in 1906 by President Germán Riesco to replace the earlier Legion of Merit. It became Chile’s most prestigious honor for both Chilean and foreign nationals, recognizing extraordinary contributions to the nation, including acts of diplomacy, military leadership, and service to the state. The Type One design is especially scarce today due to its limited production and later redesigns of the order.
Condition: Some very light enamel chipping, standard with age.
