Spain, Kingdom. An Order Of Civil Merit, Collar By Cejalvo, In Case

(Orden del Mérito Civil). Instituted June 25, 1926. Collar instituted 1957. In silver gilt, a collar composed of ten total links, alternating between blue and white enamelled stylized Xs with superimposed wreaths, each measuring 91.10mm (w including integral rings) x 36.94mm (h), with round links featuring a female figure surrounded by a blue and white enamel ring inscribed AL MERITO CIVIL, encircled by a wreath, these links measure 35.86mm (w – inclusive of integral rings) x 36.35mm (h), the reverse of one clasp each link is connected by a string of small honeycomb patterned chains, the central link features the Spanish coat of arms with the inscription UNA GRANDE LIBRE behind the eagle’s head, the reverse has been engraved No 50, and measures 38.25mm (w) x 48.93mm (h), connected to the collar badge (described below), an additional chain on each side connects from the central link and between the first and second link on each side, reverse of the collar is plain barring two angular hooks for shoulder attachments on each of the third links from the center, the collar in its entirety measures 925mm in length, weighs 327.3 grams (including badge), light enamel wear to several links, scattered gilt wear, clasp functional, in very fine condition.

The collar badge, in silver gilt features an eight-point star of faceted rays with a large central blue and white enamelled X with the center presented the female figure surrounded by a blue and white enamelled ring inscribed AL MERITO CIVIL, surmounted by a superimposed crown, with a green enamelled wreath in the remaining three quadrants, the reverse is plain, measures 55.07mm (w) x 60.25mm (h), enamels intact, scattered gilt wear, central medallion slightly off center, in extremely fine condition.

Accompanied by a miniature collar in silver gilt, featuring ten total links of alternating blue enamel crosses with inlaid wreaths and round links featuring a blue ring encircled by a wreath, the central link is an eagle with the Spanish coat of arms on the obverse in enamels, connected to the collar badge, and eight point star with a large central blue and white enamelled X with the center presented the female figure surrounded by a blue and white enamelled ring inscribed AL MERITO CIVIL, surmounted by a superimposed crown, with a green enamelled wreath in the remaining three quadrants, reverse of all links plain, the links are connected to an ovular disc with central bar, measures 112mm in length (from disc to edge of collar badge), weighs 21.1 grams, enamels intact, scattered gilt wear, remains in very fine condition.

Contained in its original case of issue, dark blue leatherette exterior with a cross hatched pattern and central gilded Spanish coat of arms applique in the center, the interior lid features a crème coloured silk with central makers mark for Cejalvo, Madrid, the base offers a black velvet recessed medal bed, with a metal hook for the miniature collar, two silk strands connect the base to the lid, measures 435mm (w) x 323mm (l) x 48mm (d), two front clasps functional, scuffs on the exterior and tape residue around the exterior, the interior lid is loose and can be removed from case, remains in very fine condition.