Spain, Franco Period. An Imperial Order of the Yoke and Arrows, Commander, by Cejalvo c.1950

(Orden Imperial del Yugo y las Flechas). Instituted in 1937 by Francisco Franco. 1937-1975 issue. In silver gilt, a black enameled four armed cross, with obverse centre exhibiting a superposed red enameled royal symbol of the Yoke and Arrows, inscribed by the Latin inscription CAESARIS CAESARI DEI DEO (To Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God), with plain reverse, measuring 59.09 mm (w) x 64.51 mm (h - inclusive of integral ball), presenting several lost of gilt, on original neck ribbon, fine; together with a miniature also in silver gilt, depicting a black enameled four armed cross with a superposed red enameled royal symbol of the Yoke and Arrows, reverse with buttonhole, marked by unknown Spanish mark, measuring 14.23 mm (w) x 14.34 mm (h), with toned silver, good; accompanied by a brown case, with hardshelled ornament surface, superposed by a gilded typical of time period Spanish coat of arms, with functionally clasp, featuring white silk interior printed by maker's label "Condecoraciones Joyeria Cejalvo, Cruz 5, Madrid", with slotted bed, light contact, measuring 140.96 mm (l) x 111.34 mm (w) x 35.81 mm (h), very fine.

Footnote: The Imperial Order of the Yoke and Arrows was originally instituted as the Great Order of the Red Arrows by General Francisco Franco on October 10, 1937. It was regulated and renamed Imperial Order of the Yoke and Arrows on January 27, 1943. The Order was awarded to Spaniards and foreigners either citizens or military personnel, in recognition of outstanding services rendered to Spain during Franco’s government; it was considered the most prestigious award within Spain for military and civil service. The Order was awarded for last time on October 1, 1975.