Spain, Kingdom. A Civil Order of Charity, Grand Cross Star with Purple & Black Distinction, by Castells, c.1927

(Orden Civil de Beneficencia). Instituted 1856 by Queen Isabella II. Type II. 1910-1975 Issue. Purple & Black Distinction. An eight-pointed star in silver gilt with ball finials, arms applied in purple and black enamelling, embellished by ornamented patterns in each quadrant in silver gilt, stylized obverse medallion exhibiting Latin inscription FORTITUDO CHARITAS ABNEGATIO on a white enamel border, superposed by gilded symbol of charity with partial green enamels, the reverse with principal pin assembly and dual stays, marked by maker’s cartouche CASTELLS, BARCELONA, one of the most remarkable jewelers in Spain, encircled by jewelry inscription “Ofrenda del Colegio Oficial de Veterinarios de la Prov. de Tarragona a D. Juan Torello 4 Sepbre 1927” (Offering of the Official College of Veterinarians of the Province of Tarragona to D. Juan Torello 4th September of 1927), measuring 73.20 mm (w) x 73.85 mm (h), with minor loss of gilt, extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Order of Charity was founded by Queen Isabella II on May 17, 1856. It was established in recognition of the charity, solidarity, courage and valor of those volunteers who attended the cholera infection in Spain between 1854 and 1855. The Purple-black distinction was awarded in recognition of meritorious public health services involving personal risk of life.

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.