Spain, Franco’s Period. An Order of Isabella the Catholic, Commander, c.1955

(Orden de Isabel la Católica). Instituted 1815. 1939-1975 issued. A silver gilt ball-tipped Maltese cross with red enamels, featuring cleft rays also in silver gilt in each quadrant, centre presenting a handmade insignia surrounded by a silver gilt enameled green laurel wreath, displaying the inscription A LA LEALTAD ACRISOLADA ISABEL LA CATOLICA, surmounted by typical of time period Spanish crown and cyphre of Ferdinand VII both in silver gilt, reverse with decorative pin assembly and dual stays, measuring 80.89 mm (w) x 80.96 mm (h), with minor toned silver gilt, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Isabella the Catholic was instituted in Spain as the Royal and American Order of Isabella the Catholic by King Fernando VII/Ferdinand VII on March 24, 1815. The name of the Order was modified by decree of April 15, 1889 when the Spanish Crown abandoned its intentions of ruling Latin America, and overseas. The Order was a civil and military order originally granted in recognition of those who had served the interests of the Spanish Crown in Latin America. Currently, the Order is conferred to foreigners and Spanish citizens for meritorious civil acts, especially those that foster the relationships between Spain and other nations.