Ecuador - National Order of Merit, Type II, Grand Cross Breast Star
(Orden Nacional al Mérito, Tipo II, Gran Cruz Estrella de Pecho). The National Order of Merit of Ecuador (Orden Nacional al Mérito) was established by decree on October 8, 1921, originally as the Medal of Merit (Medalla al Mérito). It was redesigned and renamed as an order in 1929, with a structured hierarchy of classes.
This Grand Cross Breast Star (Gran Cruz Estrella de Pecho) belongs to Type II (1937–present) and is among the highest distinctions awarded by the Ecuadorian government for civil and military excellence in diplomacy, science, literature, and the arts.
This specific piece:
Dimensions: 75.18 mm (height) x 68.61 mm (width)
Material: Silvered and gilded metal with enamel
Condition: Very good
Maker’s Mark: Engraved on the reverse, on fastening pin
Period: Post-1937 (Type II classification)
Design Features
Structure & Shape
The central medallion features the coat of arms of Ecuador, representing national sovereignty.
Obverse (Front) Details
Gold-bordered central medallion with detailed enamel work.
Encircling text: "REPUBLICA DEL ECUADOR AL MERITO", emphasizing its national significance.
​​​​​​​Fastening pin with an engraved maker’s mark (please refer to pictures for exact manufacturer details).
Historical Context
Establishment & Evolution
Initially created in 1921 as a Medal of Merit, it became a chivalric order in 1929.
The grades were restructured in 1937, leading to the current classification:
Grand Collar (Gran Collar)
Grand Cross (Gran Cruz)
Grand Officer (Gran Oficial)
Commander (Comendador)
Officer (Oficial)
Knight (Caballero)
Award Criteria
Conferred to Ecuadorians and foreigners for outstanding contributions to:
Diplomacy
Science & Innovation
Literature & Education
The Arts & Culture
Also awarded to high-ranking military officers for distinguished service.
This Ecuador - National Order of Merit, Type II, Grand Cross Breast Star is a highly prestigious and rare award, signifying exceptional national service. With its detailed enamel, gilded finish, and well-preserved condition, it remains a valuable and historically significant piece in the field of Latin American orders and chivalric distinctions.
For further evaluation and authentication, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel work, and the reverse maker’s mark.