Dominican Republic - Order of Trujillo, Civil Division, Grand Cross Breast Star
Specifications:
Official Name: Orden de Trujillo (Order of Trujillo)
Class: Grand Cross Breast Star
Division: Civil Division
Period of Award: 1918–1945
Dimensions: 77.92 mm x 77.94 mm
Construction: Four-piece assembly, silver with red, white, blue, and green enamels
Suspension: Vertical pinback
Markings: Unmarked
Condition:
Enamel damage: Several chips and crazing on three of the cross arms (refer to images)
Order Overview:
The Order of Trujillo was the second-highest national order of the Dominican Republic, following the Order of Merit of Duarte, Sánchez, and Mella. It was established on June 13, 1938, to honor Generalissimo Rafael Trujillo, the country’s then-President and military leader.
The order was conferred upon both civilians and military personnel, regardless of citizenship, in recognition of distinguished service.
Design Features:
Obverse (Front) Details:
Shape: Large five-armed Maltese cross with ball finials, characteristic of traditional chivalric orders
Central Medallion:
Features the coat of arms of the Dominican Republic, symbolizing national identity and unity
Surrounding Ring: Inscribed with "Orden de Trujillo"
Color Scheme:
White enamel cross arms (now damaged with chipping and crazing)
Blue, red, and green enamel accents, reflecting the colors of the Dominican flag
Reverse (Back) Details:
Plain silver back with a vertical pinback fastening
No maker's marks or inscriptions
Hierarchy & Classes of the Order:
The Order of Trujillo was structured into multiple classes:
Grand Cross (this piece) – Worn with a breast star and sash
Grand Officer – Worn with a smaller breast star and neck ribbon
Commander – Worn on a neck ribbon
Officer – Worn on a chest ribbon with rosette
Knight – Worn on a simple ribbon
Historical Context:
Established: 1938 during Trujillo’s authoritarian regime
Purpose: To reward exceptional service to the Dominican Republic
Discontinued: The order became obsolete after Trujillo’s assassination in 1961, as the country distanced itself from his legacy
Legacy: While the order no longer exists, pieces from this period are highly collectible due to their historical significance
This Grand Cross Breast Star of the Order of Trujillo is a valuable historical artifact from the Dominican Republic’s Trujillo era. Despite enamel damage and slight bending, it remains a highly collectible piece, reflecting the legacy of one of Latin America's most controversial leaders.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided images to assess enamel damage, pin condition, and overall preservation.