Spain, Kingdom. A Miniature Order Of Agricultural Merit, Grand Cross Star, C.1910

(Orden al Mérito Agrario). Instituted 1905 by King Alfonso XIII. Alfonso XIII’s reign issue. In silver gilt, a beautiful green enameled multi-rayed star, with obverse centre exhibiting an engraved woman plowing the field, surrounded by an enameled white border inscribed MERITO AGRICOLA (Agricultural Merit), featuring a beneath detailed enameled Spanish coat of arms, surmounted by a typical of time period enameled Spanish crown, medallion encircled by a gilt necklace composing of linked Zodiac signs, reverse with backplate for attachment, measuring 19.79 (w) x 20.06 mm (h), near to mint.

Footnote: The Order of Agricultural Merit was founded in Spain by King Alfonso XIII on December 1, 1905. It was awarded in recognition of those who had encouraged the agricultural practices in Spain. The Order was annulled by the Second Spanish Republic in 1931, and it was reinstated by General Francisco Franco on October 14, 1942. The Order was re-instituted as the Order of Agrarian, Fishery and Alimentary Merit on February 27, 1987.