(Order al Mérito Sanitario). Instituted in 1943 by General Francisco Franco. Issued 1943-1975. In silver gilt, a miniature ball-tipped Maltese Cross in white enamels, displaying multiple gilded rays in each quadrant, the obverse superposed by an enameled period Spanish coat of arms, surrounded by an enameled red border inscribed AL MERITO SANITARIO (to Health Merit), the reverse with button for attachment, measuring 20.70 mm (w) x 23.10 mm (h), presenting cracked white enamels and the 3 o’clock ball finials bent for wearing, good condition.
Footnote: The Spanish Civil Order of Health was established by General Francisco Franco as successor of the Epidemic Cross awards. It is currently active and is awarded to foreign and national individuals, and organizations, in recognition of outstanding service and developing activities relating to the field of health. This Order is the highest Civil Order in Spain that recognized merit and honour within the health field.

