Decoration for Officers in Silver of the 1st version, type for civilian of rank compared to generals, as a seven-pointed star, its rays flanked by a flat ring embossed with acanthus leaves; white enameled centre medallion with the laureated head of Don Joao VI King of Portugal facing right, within border as a green enameled, narrow laurel wreath; above, the crowned coat of arms of Portugal, on top of which is affixed the pivoting, horizontal suspension bar; the reverse with centre medallion bearing the embossed inscription “MONTEVIDEO” within three rosettes above (the central one, larger) and acanthus leaves below, the whole within green enameled laurel wreath.
A historically very important and extremely rare decoration, instituted in 1824, to reward signalled merits and commemorate the fierce combats during the overseas’ expeditions of 1816 to 1820, in this case to distinguish the merits of high-ranking civilians; excellent condition and beautiful, dark patina. Dim.: 50,0 x 42,0 mm. I RR!