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Miniature circular silver-gilt and enamel insignia of Aztec geometric design with five ‘V’ shapes imposed, creating the effect of a five-pointed star, with panels between the arms, the uppermost ‘V’ with loop for ribbon suspension; the face with a circular central pale turquoise blue enamel medallion supporting the Aztec eagle holding a red enamel snake within a ring decorated with circles, each of the panels between the ‘V’ shapes decorated with the head of an eagle; the reverse plain gilt; diameter 15.58mm (0.61 inch); on original brilliant yellow ribbon with rosette mounted on silver thread denoting an award of the III (‘Banda’ = ‘Sash’) class and with pasador top bar with screwpost and circular backplate for wear. The Order was established on 29 December 1943 in six classes to be awarded to foreign Heads of State, foreign diplomats, and other foreigners who render distinguished service to the Republic of Mexico. The 3rd class is intended for those of the rank of government ministers, permanent secretaries and ambassadors. According to legend, when the Aztecs were seeking a location for a new city, one of their priests saw an eagle perched on a cactus consuming a snake held in its claws. A temple was erected on the spot, followed by the city of Tenochtitlan. The Spanish conquistadors wreaked havoc with the city but on its site now stands Mexico City.
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