Spain, Kingdom. An Order of Civil Merit, Grand Cross, c.1920

(Orden al Mérito Civil). Instituted 1926 by King Alfonso XIII. 1926-1931 Issue. A silver gilt sash badge consisting of a blue enameled Anchor cross with clusters of rays in each quadrant, obverse centre featuring a blue border inscribed by AL MÉRITO CIVIL (To Civil Merit), with surmounted enameled red typical of the time period Spanish crown, with plain reverse, suspending by a nicely enameled green laurel wreath also in silver gilt, hallmarked by a Dutch proof silver hallmark denoting fineness of 835/1000 since 1953, measuring 48.30 mm (w) x 73.92 mm (h - inclusive of integral arc), with minor lost of blue enamels, and toned silver, on period silk sash, better than fine. Accompanied by the star of the order, consisting of a blue enameled Anchor cross with clusters of rays in each quadrant, obverse centre inscribed by AL MÉRITO CIVIL (To Civil Merit), surmounted by a typical red enameled Spanish crown, reverse with pin assembly and dual stays, presenting Dutch proof hallmark of 835/1000 silver fineness since 1953, measuring 73.95 mm (w) x 73.80 mm (h), with toned silver on the medallion, very fine. 

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.