Spain, Franco Period. An Order of Civil Merit, I Class Grand Cross, c.1950

(Orden del Mérito Civil). Instituted in 1926. Type II (1942-1975) In silver with blue, white and green enamels, the Franco crown surmounting the insignia of the order, both of which are mounted to a cross base, with five faceted rays on the arms at 6 and 12 o'clock and seven faceted rays on the arms at 3 and 6 o'clock, measuring 48.8 mm (w) x 71.2 mm (h) inclusive of its wreath and laterally-pierced ball suspension, intact enamels, without sash, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Civil Merit was instituted on June 25, 1926 and awarded to Spanish government employees for meritorious service, and to Spaniards and foreigners for extraordinary services to the nation, in six grades: Collar, Grand Cross, Commander by Number, Commander, Officer, Knight, plus a Silver Cross.