Spain, Franco Period. An Order Of Aeronautical Merit, 1St Class, C.1938

In silver gilt with red, white, blue and green enamelled insignia, with silver castle and lion icons framed by the arms of the cross, mounted to a silver gilt eight-pointed base, Assay marked on reverse below hinge M55 (Madrid), and silver quality mark in form of a star denoting .915 silver (1934+), measuring 69.2 mm (w) x 69 mm (h), vertical pinback flanked by dual prongs, intact enamels, gilt loss on the wings of the insignia, scattered gilt wear on the star base, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Crosses of Aeronautical Merit are Spain's military award for gallantry or merit in the air. The award can be made in war or at times of peace. It is awarded to members of the Spanish Armed Forces, Guardia Civil or civilians. It was established on November 30, 1945 by chief of state Francisco Franco as the Order of Aeronautical Merit and amended in 1976, 1995, 2003 and 2007. Awarded originally in three classes and a cross in silver for non-commissioned ranks, in 1995 it lost the rank of an order of merit and reduced to two and the number of categories extended to four. The Order of Aeronautical Merit with White Decoration is awarded for actions, deeds or distinguished service during missions of ordinary or extraordinary service in the armed forces or in connection with defense of the country.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.