Spain, Franco Period. An Order Of Civil Merit, Commander With Miniature, C.1950

(Orden al Mérito Civil). Instituted 1926. 1942-1975 issue. A four-armed cross in silver gilt, with each arm composed of clusters of individual beaded rays, obverse centrepiece featuring an enameled blue four armed cross inscribed AL MERITO CIVIL (To Civil Merit) in silver gilt, adorned by a typical time of period Spanish crown also in silver gilt, featuring plain reverse, suspended by a green enameled laurel wreath, measuring 49.91 mm (w) x 76.11 mm (h - inclusive of integral ball), with minor lost of gilt, suspended on original neck ribbon, extremely fine condition; accompanied by a silver gilt miniature, featuring the badge of the order surmounted by a green enameled laurel wreath, reverse with buttonhole, measuring 18.02 mm (w) x 24.16 mm (h - inclusive of laurel wreath), with bent buttonhole, otherwise extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Civil Merit was established in Spain by King Alfonso XII/Alphonso XII on June 25, 1926. It is conferred upon both Spanish and foreign citizens who have displayed civil virtue and meritorious actions which have served to benefit Spanish interests.