Spain, Transition Period. An Order Of Public Health, Grand Cross Star, C.1975

(Order al Mérito Sanitario). Instituted in 1943 by General Francisco Franco. Issued 1975-1995. In silver gilt, a ball-tipped Maltese Cross with enameled white arms, displaying multiple gilded rays in each quadrant, the obverse superposed by an enameled period Spanish coat of arms, within an enameled pink background, surrounded by an enameled red border inscribed AL MERITO SANITARIO (to Health Merit), the reverse with pin assembly and dual stays, measuring 60.40 mm (w) x 61.10 mm (h), light contact, near mint condition.

Footnote: The Spanish Civil Order of Health was established by General Francisco Franco as successor of the Epidemic Cross awards. It is currently active and is awarded to foreign and national individuals, and organizations, in recognition of outstanding service and developing activities relating to the field of health. This Order is the highest Civil Order in Spain that recognized merit and honour within the health field.