Spain, Kingdom. An Order of Military Merit by B. Castells, Red Distinction, 2nd Class Cross, c.1915

(Orden al Mérito Militar). Instituted 1864. Alfonso XIII (1902-1931). Type I, Red Distinction. An eight-pointed star consisting of delicate cut silver rays, with obverse centre featuring a red-enamelled cross of four equal arms in bronze gilt, superposed white, blue and red-enamelled national coat of arms in bronze gilt, 12 o'clock arm cross depicting a typical of time of period Spanish Crown and a clasp both in bronze gilt, alternating bronze-gilded lions and castles in each quadrant, reverse with pin assembly and dual stays, featuring Spanish maker’s mark “Castells Barcelona”, measuring 82.38 mm (w) x 84.72 mm (h), with toned silver and blent 9 o’clock arm of the star, very good.

Footnote: The Order of Military Merit was created by Queen Isabel II by a royal decree of 3rd August, 1864. It was founded to reward individual acts of distinction and bravery or acts of significant service and merit by members of the Armed forces and Civil Guard. The Red Division is awarded in recognition of meritorious service during time 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.