Spain, Kingdom. An Order Of Civil Merit Commander by Number Star, c. 1945.

(Orden al Mérito Civil). Instituted in 1926.  In silver, an eight point star with clusters of faceted rays, the obverse bears a white and blue enameled Saltire cross with an ovular center inscribed AL MERITO CIVIL, the obverse medallion in silver features a full length female figure, an imperial crown sits on the 12 o’clock arm, the reverse bears a single vertical pin flanked by dual stays, measures 69.8mm (w) x 71.7mm (h), enamels intact, hinge and pin functional, in very fine condition.

Footnote:The Order of Civil Merit was established by King Alfonso XII on June 25, 1926. It was abolished by the Second Spanish Republic in 1933 but reinstated by General Francisco Franco in 1942. It is conferred upon those either Spanish or foreign citizens who have displayed civil virtue and meritorious actions that served the interests of Spanish culture.