Spain, Kingdom. An Order of Military Merit, I Class with Red Distinction, c.1900

Orden del Mérito Militar. Instituted in 1864. 1875-1931 Issue. In silver gilt with red, white and blue enamels, measuring 28 mm (w) x 46.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, intact enamels, original ribbon suspended from a traditional Spanish-style horizontal hanger with pinback, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Military Merit was instituted on August 3, 1864 by Queen Isabel II and amended in 1931, 1936, 1942, 1970, 1977, 1995 and 2003. The Red Distinction version is awarded for courage, actions, deeds or service during an armed conflict or military operations that involve or may involve the use of armed force and may require significant military or command skills; since 2007 it can be awarded to for acts of gallantry while on an overseas mission and to soldiers fallen during such a mission.