Portugal - Order of Military Merit, Breast Star (Ordem do Mérito Militar, Estrela de Peito)
The Order of Military Merit (Ordem do Mérito Militar) is one of Portugal’s most prestigious military decorations, recognizing exceptional military service, leadership, and dedication.
This Breast Star is a high-ranking insignia, typically awarded to senior officers and represents one of the highest honors within the order.
Specifications
Institution: Established May 28, 1946.
Class: Breast Star (Estrela de Peito) – Part of the Grand Cross insignia.
Diameter: 71.20 mm.
Material: Silver with white and red enamel.
Condition:
Chipped red enamel on the central roundel (please refer to pictures for condition).
Fine details intact, well-preserved high-relief convex starburst.
Suspension & Mounting:
Wide vertical pin on the reverse, designed for attachment to a military or ceremonial uniform.
Silver hallmark and maker’s mark present (refer to pictures for verification).
Design Features
Overall Structure
Convex eight-pointed starburst, a hallmark of high-ranking military orders.
Separations between the rays, enhancing the three-dimensional relief design.
Obverse (Front) Details
White-enamel outlined red cross, a symbol of Portugal’s military heritage.
Central roundel in red enamel, bearing the order’s emblem (slightly chipped enamel).
Encircled by a silver laurel wreath, symbolizing military valor and honor.
Reverse (Back) Details
Silver hallmark and maker’s mark, ensuring authenticity.
Wide vertical pin, allowing secure attachment to ceremonial attire.
Historical Context & Awarding Criteria
Classes of the Order of Military Merit
The Military Merit Medal (Medalha de Mérito Militar) is divided into four classes, awarded based on rank and service:
Grand Cross (GCMM) – Exclusively for General Officers (includes the Breast Star).
1st Class (MPMM) – For General Officers, Colonels, and Sea Captains.
2nd Class (MSMM) – For Lieutenant Colonels, Majors, and Captains.
3rd & 4th Class (MTMM, MQMM) – For junior officers, NCOs, and enlisted personnel.
Eligibility & Recipients
Awarded to Portuguese and foreign military personnel for outstanding military achievements.
Recognizes extraordinary leadership, exemplary service, and acts of valor.
Foreign military officials and allies can receive this order as an honorary award.
This Portugal - Order of Military Merit, Breast Star is a prestigious and rare decoration, representing excellence in military service and leadership.
Despite minor enamel chipping, its exquisite silver craftsmanship, convex starburst relief, and historical importance make it a valuable collector’s item.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel integrity, and hallmarks.