Spain, Kingdom. A Civil Order of Alfonso XII, Grand Cross, by Marino Cejalvo Cruz

(Orden Civil de Alfonso XII). Instituted May 23, 1902 by King Alfonso XIII. Of Spanish Manufacture, a grand cross composed of silver gilt, a four-point star with clusters of smooth rays in each quadrant with an unusual red lacquered design representing the purple rays, the obverse centre features a superposed silver eagle on a gilded background, surrounded by Latin inscription AXII ALTIORAPETO in silver lettering, as well by a wreath of laurel and oak branches, the wreath is crowned by partially enamelled period Spanish royal crown, the base presents an enamelled replacement Spanish escutcheon, the reverse is plain, measuring 55.2mm (w) x 56.52mm (h), weighs 85.3 grams including sash, the sash is heavily faded and the badge has been sewn directly to it below the rosette, the badge’s enamels remain in tact, a unique decoration in very fine condition.

Accompanied by the breast star of the Order also in silver gilt, composing by the four-armed cross and seven clusters of three rays in each quadrant with an unusual red lacquered design representing the purple rays, the obverse centre features a silver eagle on a gilded background, surrounded by Latin inscription AXII ALTIORAPETO in superposed silver lettering, the eagle is encircled by a crowned wreath of laurel and oak branches, with base presenting a replacement Spanish escutcheon, the reverse presents a singular vertical pin with dual stays, makers cartouche in the center denotes MARIANO CEJALVO CRUZ 11 MADRID, measures 80.0mm (w) x 80.2mm (h), weighs 69.3 grams, hinge and catch functional, enamels intact, a unique star in very fine condition.