(Orden de Isabel la Católica). Instituted 1815 by King Ferdinand VII. 1938-1950 Issue. A ball-tipped enameled red Maltese Cross in silver gilt, embellishing by multiple gilded rays in each quadrant, the obverse exhibiting a finely hand-painted central medallion, encircled by an enameled white border inscribed A LA LEALTAD ACRISOLADA (For the Unadulterated Loyalty), the reverse depicting the cypher of Ferdinand VII on a blue enameled background, surrounded by the inscription POR ISABEL LA CATOLICA (For Isabella the Catholic), suspended by an enameled green laurel wreath, with Spanish hallmark denoting silver fineness .915 since 1934, together with maker’s mark of Medina, Madrid, measuring 43.17 mm (w) x 64.13 mm (h - inclusive of wreath suspension), toned silver, with original breast ribbon on a typical Spanish horizontal hanger with pinback, very fine.
Footnote: The Order of Isabella the Catholic was instituted in Spain as the Royal and American Order of Isabella the Catholic by King Fernando VII/Ferdinand VII on March 24, 1815. The name was modified in 1889, when the Spanish Crown abandoned its intentions of ruling Latin America and overseas. The Order is currently active in Spain, and it is conferred to foreigners and Spanish citizens either women or men for meritorious civil acts, especially those that foster the relationships between Spain and other nations.