Spain, Spanish State. An Order of Military Merit Grand Cross Breast Star, II Class, with Red Distinction.

(Cruces del Mérito Militar). Instituted in 1864. Type VI (1936-1976). Multiple piece construction, an eight point star with faceted rays, silver gilt and enamels center cross with alternating lions and castilles in each quadrant, vertical pinback with dual stays, unmarked, measuring at 70 mm in diameter, intact enamels, extremely fine. 

Footnote: The Order was instituted on 3 August 1864 by Queen Isabella II as the Order of Military Merit; since then, it has been amended many times (in 1918, 1926, 1931, 1938, 1942, 1976, 1995, 2003 and 2007). During the Spanish Civil War it was recognized by both sides of the conflict. Awarded originally in four classes, in 1995 it lost the rank of an order of merit, and the classes were reduced to two and the number of categories extended to four. The Red Distinction was awarded for courage, actions, deeds or service during an armed conflict or military operations that involve or may involve the use of armed force and may require significant military or command skills; since 2007 it can be awarded to for acts of gallantry while on an overseas mission and to soldiers fallen during such a mission.