Spain, Kingdom. A Civil Order Of Alfonso Xii, Grand Cross, C.1910

(Orden Civil de Alfonso XII). Instituted by Alfonso XIII in 1902. 1902-1931 issued. Constructed of silver gilt, a remarkable and sparse set of the Grand Cross, consisting of a four-armed wavy cross with purple enameled arms and three purple enameled rays in each quadrant, the obverse centre features a superposed silver eagle on a gilded background, surrounded by Latin inscription AXII ALTIORAPETO in silver lettering, as well by a wreath of laurel and oak branches, the wreath is crowned by partially enameled period Spanish royal crown, the base presents an enameled replacement Spanish escutcheon (provenienced by Franco period), the reverse is plain, measuring 58.56 mm (w) x 63.57 mm (h - inclusive of the integral ball), with faded purple enamel and light contact, suspended by an ornamented period loop suspension on a full-length original sash with ribbon, in extremely fine condition. Accompanied by the breast star of the Order also in silver gilt, composing by the wavy four-armed cross with purple enamel and three enameled rays in each quadrant, the obverse centre features a silver eagle on a gilded background, surrounded by Latin inscription AXII ALTIORAPETO in superposed silver lettering, the eagle is encircled by a crowned wreath of laurel and oak branches, with base presenting a replacement Spanish escutcheon (also provenienced by Franco period), the reverse presents a principal pin assembly flanked by two prongs, measuring 85.91 mm (w) x 86.60 mm (h), exhibiting faded enamel and evident chipping on the 3 o’clock arm, light contact; overall, the set is a very rare piece preserved in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Civil Order of Alfonso XII was founded by King Alfonso XIII on May 23, 1902. It was awarded to either Spanish or foreign citizens in recognition of meritorious services within the fields of education, science, culture, teaching, and researching.The Order was abolished in 1931, and it was replaced by the Civil Order of Alfonso XII in 1939. During its lifespan there were approximately awarded 237 Grand Crosses, 389 Commanders by Number, 662 Commanders, 1096 Knights, and 68 Laces to madams.