DON BAILEY'S ORDER OF THE AZTEC EAGLE

Earlier today when cataloging a Grand Cross breast star of the Mexican Order of the Aztec Eagle, I thought of Don Bailey's 2001 award of the "Insignia Class" of this Order. That reminded me to phone him to say hello. Then a few hours later when I read the notice of his death, I was stunned.

I visited Don and Lois shortly after he learned of his pending bestowal of the Order of the Aztec Eagle.

He didn't mention it at first, but while we chatted about Mexican Orders & Medals he nonchalantly handed me an envelope with the Mexican eagle embossed on the flap. What a surprise to see an invitation to his own award ceremony. Then he proudly beamed a wide grin as I read the details of his award. I was so happy for him, but couldn't attend due to family illness, yet I still treasure the invitation which I keep in the appropriate section of Grove's Vol. 3 on Mexican ODMs.

I will miss him as will all who knew him, truly a scholar and a gentleman. My condolences to Lois, his family and his many friends.

Medal image credit: Princeton University Numismatic Collection

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
DON BAILEY (1933-2018) (http://www.coinbooks.org/v21/esylum_v21n33a11.html)

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