Spain, Kingdom. An Order Of Isabella The Catholic In Gold, I Class Commander C.1900

(Orden de Isabel la Católica). Instituted in 1815 by King Ferdinand VII. 1875-1931 Issue. A fine example in Gold, consisting of a red enameled Maltese Cross with ball finials, featuring delicate clusters of five rays in each quadrant, obverse exhibiting a hand painted on enamel design surrounded by the inscription A LA LEALTAD ACRISOLADA (To the Pure Loyalty), reverse centre depicting the cypher of Ferdinand VII on an enameled dark blue background, encircled by elegant enameled white border inscribed POR ISABEL LA CATOLICA (For Isabella the Catholic), adorned by detailed enameled green laurel wreath suspension, measuring 55.56 mm (w) x 95.63 mm (h - inclusive of neck suspension), 32.5 grams, with enamel loss to ornate loop, centre obverse, and 3 o'clock arm, suspended by a original neck ribbon, better than fine.

Footnote: The Order of Isabella the Catholic was instituted in recognition of those who had served the interests of the Spanish Crown in Latin America and overseas. It is currently conferred to foreigners and Spanish citizens either women or men for meritorious civil acts, especially those that foster the relationships between Spain and other nations. 

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.