Spain, Kingdom. An Order of Civil Merit, Grand Cross Star in Gold and Diamonds, c.1940

(Orden al Mérito Civil). Instituted by King Alfonso XIII on June 25, 1926. Of high quality manufacture, an exceptional and desirable beaded eight-armed cross in polished silver, the obverse insignia in 18K Gold frame featuring an unusual superimposed silver female figure on an enameled white background, circumscribed by an enameled blue white-framed four-armed cross with the inscription AL MERITO CIVIL (To Civil Merit), crowned by period 18K Gold Spanish imperial crown set with genuine diamonds and gemstones, reverse featuring an ornamented central pin assembly flanked by two stays, measures 77.3 mm (w) x 81.1 mm (h), weighs 87.5 grams, very minor enamel wear, in extremely fine condition. 

Accompanied by the miniature of the order in silver and silver gilt, with boutonniere reverse, measures 19.2 mm (w) x 21.0 mm (h), partial mark on the ring denoting Cejalvo, dark patina, minor enamel wear, remains very fine. 

Contained in the original case of issue, brown leatherette exterior with gilt Spanish insignia superimposed on the lid, with interior marked Cejalvo MADRID,  black velvet base with indents for pin, stays and boutonniere, measures 100 mm (w) x 130 mm (h) x 30 mm (d), minor wear, functional hinge and clasp, very fine.