The Order of Military Merit (Ordem do Mérito Militar) was established on June 11, 1934, by President Getúlio Vargas to honor military personnel, civilians, and institutions—both national and foreign—for exceptional service to the Brazilian Armed Forces, particularly the Army (Exército Brasileiro).
This specific piece:
Dimensions: 60.33 mm (height) x 55.02 mm (width)
Material: Silver with enamel details
Condition: Please refer to pictures for exact state of enamel and metalwork.
Ribbon & Suspension A neck badge with a ribbon in good condition.
Awarding Criteria & Recipients
Bestowed upon:
Brazilian military personnel for merit and service.
Civilians who contributed to the Armed Forces.
Foreign military officers and dignitaries.
The Grand Officer class is the second-highest level, ranking below only the Grand Cross.
Evolution & Modern Regulations
The order was officially regulated in 1960.
Successive decrees modified its criteria, which remains in effect today.
The President of Brazil serves as the Grand Master, and the Grand Cross and Collar are passed down to the next president.
This Brazil - Order of Military Merit, Grand Officer (1934 issue) is an exceptionally rare and historically significant military decoration. As an early issue from the Vargas era, made of silver and enamel, it holds high collectible and diplomatic value.
For further authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess enamel condition, silver patina, and reverse hallmarks.