Spain, Kingdom. A Royal and Most Distinguished Order of Charles III, IV Class Officer

(Real y Muy Distinguida Orden de Carlos III). Instituted in 1771. In silver gilt and enamels, a Maltese cross in blue and white enamel, with fleur de lys in each quadrant, surmounted by a wreath, the obverse Gold centerpiece bearing a distinctive iconography of the Immaculate Conception, the reverse bearing the Royal monogram of Charles III, surrounded by a white enamelled ring with the motto VIRTUTI ET MERITO, measures 42.9 mm (w) x 66.6 mm (h - inclusive of wreath and horizontally pierced ball suspension), weighs 24.15 grams, worn on the original ribbon with large rosette, gilt wear on silver, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition.