Spain, Facist State. An Order of Military Merit, Cross with Red Distinction, Fullsize and Miniature

(Orden del Mérito Militar). Instituted in 1864. Fullsize: four-piece construction, in silver gilt with red, white and blue enamels, the red cross indicative of war service, measuring 38.5 mm (w) x 50.2 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, original wartime ribbon, suspended from a traditional horizontal hanger with pinback; and Miniature: four-piece construction, in bronze gilt with red, white and blue enamels, the red cross indicative of war service, measuring 12.3 mm (w) x 17 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, original wartime ribbon. Intact enamels, very light contact, together, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Military Merit was instituted on August 3, 1864 by Queen Isabel II, revised in 1931, 1936, 1942, 1970, 1977, 1995 and 2003. It is awarded for acts of bravery, distinction, service or merit by members of the Armed Forces, or civilians in support of the military, in two grades: Grand Cross and Cross, in four Divisions: Red, Blue, Yellow, and White.