Miniature six-pointed gilt-edged deep red enamel cross with ball-tipped finials and a central point to the end of each arm, gilt-edged white enamel panels to the arms, a green enamel laurel wreath between the arms, on laterally-pierced ball suspension; the face with a circular central gilt medallion bearing the polychrome enamel arms of the Republic of Cuba within a gilt-edged deep red enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘REPUBLICA DE CUBA – MOP’ (Ministerio de Obras Publicas = Ministry of Public Works) imposed on a five-pointed gilt star with graduated rays between the arms; the reverse with a circular central gilt medallion bearing a green enamel landscape with a blue and white enamel geometric stylised design denoting public works, a radiant rising sun beyond, within a gilt-edged grey enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘ORDEN DEL MERITO VIAL’ and dated ‘1956’ imposed on a five-pointed gilt star with graduated rays between the arms; slight loss of enamel in places; diameter 14.42mm (0.57 inch); without ribbon. The Order was instituted in 1956 in a single class to be awarded to both Cuban citizens and foreigners such as architects and engineers for outstanding achievement in public works. The Order had a very short life and is rare.
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