Spain, Fascist State. An Order of Alfonso X the Wise, Commander
(Orden Civil de Alfonso X El Sabio). Instituted April 11 1939 by Francisco Franco. 1939-1975 issue. An enamelled red four-armed cross with trefoil-ended in silver gilt, obverse centre superposing by a front-facing crowned figure of Alfonso X the Wise with typically enamelled red and white clothing, holding an eagle and an orb in each arm, on a blue-enamelled background, surrounded by an enamelled white ring inscribed ALFONSO X EL SABIO REY DE CASTILLA Y LEON (Alfonso X the Wise, King of Castile and Leon), the reverse centre with red enamelled arms and the centre medallion featuring a red and black eagle with surmounted etched Latin inscription ALTIORA PETO (I seek higher things), suspended by an ornate loop and worn on a full length faded neck ribbon, measuring 57.7mm (w) x 61.8mm (h – inclusive of integral ball on 12 o’clock arm), weighs 41.4 grams (including ribbon), enamels intact, ribbon faded, remains in extremely fine condition.

