Membership pin in gold and enamel. Very intricate enamel work.

The Military Order of Saint James of the Sword was first established in Spain in the 12th century. In the 13th century, the Portuguese Knights of the Order divorced themselves from the Spanish order with the confirmation of Pope John XXII in 1320. In 1789, it was secularized by Queen Mary I. It was reformed again in 1862, disbanded in 1910 following the establishment of the First Portuguese Republic, and re-established in 1918. Since 1862, it has been conferred upon Portuguese and foreign citizens in recognition of merit in the fields of science, literature, and arts.

The golden pin has some enamel chipping on the face of the helmet due to re-attaching the needle. In its original velvet case.