Portugal, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Officer Set, by Hedler Cunha, in Case visually-hidden the reverse inscribed “IN MEMORIAM”

the reverse inscribed “IN MEMORIAM” within an open-ended laurel wreath tied with a ribbon at the bottom

then in Kiev

was only 24 years of age

The black finished leather washer at the crossguard junction remains intact

along with a stamped manufacturer date of “9

Portugal, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Officer Set, by Hedler Cunha, in Case visually-hidden the reverse inscribed “IN MEMORIAM”(Ordem do Mrito). Instituted in 1927. A Commander badge, a Maltese cross in silver gilt with blue and white enamels, medallion featuring the inscription BEM MERECER, the reverse features the crest of Portugal inscribed REPUBLICA PORTUGUESE, surmounted by wreath and worn on a replacement full length neck ribbon, measures 52. 1 mm (w) x 106 mm (h), enamels intact, scattered gilt wear, in near very fine condition. The Star of the Order, a Maltese cross