Spain, Kingdom. An Order of Charles III, V Class Knight

(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 43.7 mm (w) x 68 mm (h - inclusive of wreath and horizontally pierced ball suspension), weighs 28.3 grams, marked on the reverse 12 o’clock arm with a small eagle’s head denoting gold composition, worn on the original ribbon with brooch pin, gilt wear on silver, damage to the rim of the obverse medallion enamels intact, in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by the boutonniere of the order presenting the insignia, in silver gilt and enamels, buttonhole reverse, measures 13.3 mm (w) x 19.6 mm (h), light wear, very fine.