Spain, Franco Era. An Order of Military Merit, 1st Class Cross with Red Distinction for Pensioners, c.1950

(1936-1976 Issue). In bronze gilt with red, white and blue enamels, unmarked, 39.3 mm (w) x 52.2 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, original ribbon, suspended from a traditional Spanish-style horizontal hanger with pinback, intact enamels, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order was created by Queen Isabella II in 1864, to be awarded for military merit. The cross is in white enamel in times of peace, and in red enamel in times of war.

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.