Miniature silver-gilt-edged white enamel cross flory with loop and ring for ribbon suspension, the ring with ‘900’ silver purity mark and maker’s mark; the face with a central gilt medallion with a female head representative of Brazil encircled by a green enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘MERITO MILITAR’ (Military Merit); the reverse plain gilt, the central silver-gilt plate now absent; diameter 14.36mm (0.56 inch); without ribbon.
The Order was created by Decree N°. 24660 on 11 June 1934 and the regulations relating to its award have been modified several times over the years, most recently in June 1967. It is awarded to members of the Army who render significant service to their country or distinguish themselves in their profession.
It may also be awarded to foreign military personnel who render significant service to the Brazilian nation or army and to Brazilian and foreign civilians who render prestigious service to the Brazilian army.
This example came from the workshops of De Greef of Brussels and was probably made in the late 1940s or early 1950s.
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