Spain, Francoist State. An Order Of Isabella The Catholic, Grand Cross Star, C.1955

(Orden de Isabel la Catolica). Instituted March 24 1815. (1938-1998 Issue). A Grand Cross Breast Star in silver gilt, featuring a Maltese Cross with large ball finials and a cluster of five cleft rays in each quadrant, the obverse presents a red enamelled Maltese cross on the arms, with the central medallion portraying two pillars on a light blue enamel background, the pillars are topped with Spanish crowns, the scene is surrounded by a green enamelled laurel wreath with white ribbon intertwined inscribed PLUS ULTRA A LA LEALTAD ACRISOLADA POR ISABELA LA CATOLICA, the cypher FY sits in a crowned blue enamelled disc at 12 o’clock, the reverse features a single pin with dual stays, marked on the 6 o’clock arm with makers mark CEJALVO, star silver mark denoting .915 silver fineness, and M mark denoting Madrid manufacture, the star measures 71mm (w) x 71mm (h), weighs 56.7 grams, enamels intact, light patina wear, hinge and catch functional, a lovely star in extremely fine condition.

Contained in a case of issue, featuring a blue leatherette exterior with Francoist Spain coat of arms on the lid, the interior in a crème coloured silk, the interior lid presents the makers mark CRUZ CEJALVO MADRID, the base offers a recessed slit for the pin, the case measures 93mm (w) x 97mm (h) x 32mm (d), light wear to exterior, hinge and catch functional, in very fine condition.