Spain, Franco Period. An Imperial Order of the Yoke and Arrows, Knight, c.1940

(Orden Imperial del Yugo y las Flechas). Instituted in 1937 by General Francisco Franco. 1937-1942 issue. A fine four armed cross in silver gilt, encompassed by a superposed enameled black cross, obverse centre exhibiting a red enamel symbol of the Yoke and Arrows with Latin inscription CAESARIS CAESARI DEI DEO (To Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God), with plain reverse, the integral ring impressed by postcode “23M” by Juan Medina, Madrid-Barcelona, measuring 57.49 mm (w) x 61.30 (h - inclusive of integral ring), with cracked black enamels on 6 o’clock and 9 o’clock arms, faded red enamels on the obverse, oxidation on the 3 o’clock arm, presenting toned silver, suspended by original red-black ribbon on a traditional Spanish-style horizontal pinback hanger, fair condition.

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 during Franco's period. 

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.