Spain, Kingdom. An Order Of Civil Merit, Grand Cross Star, C. 1960

(Orden al Mérito Civil). Instituted by King Alfonso XIII on June 25, 1926. 1940-1975 Issue. A silver gilt eight-point star consisting of faceted and smooth rays, the obverse presents a blue enamel four-armed cross with white enamel edges and large central oval ring which depicts a leftward facing standing figure holding a sword over flames, surrounded by the inscription AL MERITO CIVIL in the blue enamel ring, the cross is surmounted by a crown on the 12 o’clock arm, reverse presents an elegantly carved single pin with dual stays, eight rivets hold the cross and crown, measures 74.37mm (w) x 76.52mm (h), weighs 72.6 grams, reverse presents a silver hallmark denoting .915 silver fineness, and an M23 hallmark denoting Madrid manufacture, a partial mark on the catch of the pin likely presenting a French swan import mark, slight wear to gilt, staining on crown and in center medallion, enamels intact, overall very fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Civil Merit (Orden del Mérito Civil) was established by King Alfonso XII/Alphonso XII on June 25, 1926. It was abolished by the Second Spanish Republic in 1933 but reinstated by General Francisco Franco in 1942. It is conferred upon those either Spanish or foreign citizens who has displayed civil virtue and meritorious actions that served to the interests of Spanish culture.