Spain, Spanish State. A Spanish War Cross Breast Star, c. 1936

Constructed of a silver alloy with multi-coloured enamels, the obverse consisting of a vaulted eight-pointed pebbled star, overlaid by a gilded cross with its arms joined together through the quadrants by a circular laurel leaf wreath and with crossed swords piercing the centrepiece, overlaid by a central enameled medallion bearing the coat of arms of Castile and León, within a blue enameled ring bearing a gilt inscription of “AL MERITO EN CAMPAÑA”, the reverse with two visible rivets securing the obverse features in place, with a raised barrel hinge and flattened pinback meeting a round wire catch, unmarked but demonstrating the characteristics of early manufacture (c. 1936), measuring 58.86 mm (w) x 56.98 mm (h), weighing 39.4 grams, demonstrating some flecking and surface chipping to the enamels, a scarce example of one of the earliest awards issued to Condor Legion personnel, in near extremely fine condition.