via the Hesperian
gilt remains intact in the area under the screwback
the obverse overlaid across the three and nine o’clock arms by a crossed sword clasp executed in gilt
succumbing to gun shot (shrapnel) wounds to his body and legs (as noted in the War Diary for the 85th Infantry Battalion)
Portugal, Kingdom. A Military Order of Saint James of the Sword, Grand Cross Breast Star, by Da Costa Auction Archive via the Hesperian(Ordem Militar de Sant'Iago da Espada). Instituted 1175. Type III (1918 ). A lovely star in silver, silver gilt and enamels, featuring a 22 rayed star with clusters of three smooth rays, the central medallion, red enamelled florid cross with laurels on a white enamelled field, with red enamel surround featuring the Motto of the order CIENCIAS, LETRAS, E ARTES (SCIENCE, LETTERS, AND ARTS), with a silver gilt ornate surround, reverse with principle