Brazil - Order of Rio Branco, Commander Class (Ordem de Rio Branco, Comendador)
The Order of Rio Branco (Ordem de Rio Branco) was established on February 14, 1962, by Law 5,141, with its regulations set forth in Decree 834 of April 3, 1962. Named after José Maria da Silva Paranhos Júnior, the Baron of Rio Branco (1845–1912), the order primarily honors distinguished diplomatic service but is also awarded for civil and governmental achievements.
The Commander Class (Comendador) is a prestigious mid-ranking level, typically conferred upon ambassadors, high-ranking government officials, and distinguished foreign dignitaries.
Specifications
Dimensions: 70.94 mm (height) x 62.67 mm (width)
Material: Silver gilt with enamel details
Condition:
Light gilt wear on centerpieces.
Cracking and chipping enamel on the obverse (please refer to pictures for details).
Ribbon: Full-length neck ribbon included.
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
Central medallion features a globe with a transverse stripe, symbolizing Brazil’s global diplomatic influence.
Surrounding blue enamel inscription:
"VBIQVE PATRIAE MEMOR" (Everywhere, mindful of the homeland).
Reverse (Back)
Central medallion inscription: "1845 – 1912", representing the birth and death years of the Baron of Rio Branco.
Suspension & Ribbon
Worn around the neck on a full-length neck ribbon, signifying its Commander Class status.
Ribbon remains intact, enhancing authenticity and collectibility.
Historical Context
Baron of Rio Branco & Brazilian Diplomacy
José Maria da Silva Paranhos Júnior, the Baron of Rio Branco, was a renowned diplomat and Brazil’s Minister of Foreign Affairs (1902–1912).
Considered the “Patron of the Brazilian Foreign Service”, he played a pivotal role in defining Brazil’s modern borders through diplomatic negotiations.
The order was created in 1962, 50 years after his death, to honor his contributions to diplomacy.
Hierarchy of the Order
The Order of Rio Branco is divided into five classes:
Grand Cross (Grã-Cruz) – Worn by presidents and top diplomats.
Grand Officer (Grande Oficial) – Bestowed upon senior government officials and high-ranking foreign dignitaries.
Commander (Comendador) – Awarded to ambassadors, senior diplomats, and distinguished individuals (this piece).
Officer (Oficial) – Conferred upon mid-level officials and professionals.
Knight (Cavaleiro) – Given for service and merit.
Eligibility & Recipients
The order is awarded to both Brazilian and foreign nationals for:
Exceptional diplomatic service.
Significant government achievements.
Outstanding contributions to Brazil’s international relations.
This Brazil - Order of Rio Branco, Commander Class is a historically significant and prestigious diplomatic decoration, commemorating Brazil’s most celebrated diplomat, the Baron of Rio Branco.
Despite cracked and chipped enamel, its silver gilt construction, full-length ribbon, and diplomatic prestige make it a valuable addition to collections of Brazilian and international awards.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess enamel damage, gilt wear, and overall condition.