Spain, Kingdom. A San Sebastian Medal & Bestowal Document to Asst. Surgeon Alfred King, 7th Infantry Regiment of the British Legion, 1836

Spain. A round medal composed of silver, the obverse presents a cross pattee with a central wreath and small crowns between the arms of the cross, encircling the inscription S. SEBASTIAN, 5 DE MAYO 1836, the reverse bears the inscription ESPANA AGRADECIDA around the edges, the central reverse depicts a standing lion of Leon surrounded by the collar of the order of Golden Fleece, measures 36mm (w) x 40mm (h – including integral suspension ring), on an incorrect replacement ribbon bearing Spanish colours, original hole at 12 o’clock has been filled and the suspension ring added, dark patina, scratches to both obverse and reverse faces, edge bruising present, overall very fine condition.

An original bestowal document awarded to Assistant Surgeon Alfred King Ensign of the 7th Regiment of Infantry British Legion of Spain, measuring 222mm (w) x 330mm (l), the top presenting the Legion Britanica Crest and a depiction of the obverse medal, printed by Henington & Galabin, attached to a cardstock backing, creased indicated the document was horizontally folded into four sections, very small tears along edges at creases, in very fine condition.

Footnote: The First Carlist War occurred in 1833-1839 between the royalists, also known as Carlists, as they fought on behalf of Don Carlos, brother to the King, and the liberals, called the Cristinos, who fought on behalf of princess Maria Christina. She sought to rescind the Salic Law and have her daughter Isabella ascend to the throne following her husband, King Ferdinand IV. In early May 1836, the fortress of San Sebastian was held by the Cristinos and a small detachment of the British legion under the commandment of Colonel Wylde. It was besieged by the Carlists, led by Sagastibeliza and fighting raged on both at the San Sebastian and surrounding outposts. In June, General Lacy Evans arrived with 10,000 British and Spanish troops, occupied the advanced Carlist position, and forced them to withdraw into Lugaritz, Munto and Puio.