(Orden Civil de Sanidad). Instituted by General Francisco Franco in 1943. Type I. 1948-1975 Issue. In silver gilt, an enameled white Maltese Cross with ball finials, embellishing by non-genuine diamonds on the ball finials, as well as clusters of three gilded rays in each quadrant, surmounted by a laurel wreath with enameled details, the obverse superposed by a typical of the time period Spanish coat of arms, inscribed AL MERITO SANITARIO, the reverse with button for attachment, measuring 17.20 mm (w) x 22.29 mm (h - inclusive of laurel wreath), stained white enamels, very good; accompanied by hard-shelled case in green color, interior lid with white silk cover, medal bed in black cotton, measuring 51.18 mm (w) x 31.27 mm (h) x 52.71 mm (l), with minor faded green, functional push button, very fine.
Footnote: The Civil Order of Health was established by Francisco Franco on July 27, 1943. It was founded as successor of the Epidemic Crosses founded in 19th century. It is currently awarded to recognize foreign and national individuals, and organizations, that provide outstanding service and activities relating to the field of health.