Spain, Franco. An Order Of Military Merit, Ii Class Star With Case, C.1950

(Orden del Mérito Militar). Instituted by Queen Isabel II on August 3, 1864. A six-pointed multirayed star in silver, superimposed by a typical enameled white four-armed cross in bronze gilt, presenting gilded lions and castles alternating through the quadrant, the obverse centre depicting period Spanish coat of arms in enamels, 12 o’clock arms with a gilded clasp surmounted by a period Spanish crown, reverse with pin assembly flanked by two stays, measuring 62.47 mm (w) x 62.42 mm (h), minor toned silver and stained white enamels, extremely good condition. Accompanied by a miniature consisting of a six-pointed multirayed star in silver, superimposed by a gilded enameled white four-armed cross with a period central Spanish coat of arms in enamels, presenting gilded lions and castles in each quadrant, 12 o’clock arms also with a gilded clasp and a Spanish crown, reverse with button hole for attachment, measuring 20.82 mm (w) x 20.42 mm (h), tarnished silver, extremely good. The set is contained by a hard-shelled green case with gilded ornamented frame, the interior lid is in white-cream silk inscribed by the maker’s name, with recessed black medal bed in cotton, measuring 104 mm (w) x 28 mm (h) x 104 mm (l), presenting minor wearing surface, functional push-button, good condition.

Footnote: The Order of Military Merit was instituted by Queen Isabel II/Isabella II on August 3, 1864. It was established to recognize either Spanish or foreign military personnel in recognition of outstanding and meritorious actions in time of war or peace.