(Cruz del Mérito Naval). Instituted in 1866. Multi-piece construction, unmarked, cross bearing an anchor insignia in bronze gilt with blue and white enamels, surrounded by four icons in bronze gilt and surmounted by the Royal crown in bronze gilt with red enamels, all of which are mounted to an eight-pointed star base, each star point with five pairs of faceted rays, measuring 62 mm (w) x 62 mm (h), vertical pinback flanked by dual stays, intact enamels, extremely fine.
Footnote: The Order of Naval Merit was instituted on August 3, 1866.

