(Orden Civil de Alfonso XII). Instituted in 1902. Multi-piece construction, in silver gilt with red, white, green, blue and violet enamels, measuring 56.5 mm (w) x 59 mm (h), intact enamels, large rosette affixed to its original ribbon with pinback, extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, dark brown leather exterior, inside lid lined in white satin, maroon felt medal bed, measuring 88 mm (w) x 140 mm (h) x 34.2 mm (d), the white satin lining exhibiting light soiling, case near extremely fine.
Footnote: The Civil Order of Alfonso XII is a Spanish honorific decoration named for King Alfonso XII (1857–1885). It was established by Royal Decree on May 23, 1902, to reward achievements in education, science, culture, teaching and research. According to Article 3 of the Royal Decree, the order is composed of three categories: Grand Cross (Gran Cruz), Commander (Encomienda), and Chevalier (Caballero). Beginning in 1939, the members of the Order could request their entry into the newly created Civil Order of Alfonso X, the Wise. Royal Decree 954/1988, of September 2nd, finalized its replacement with the Civil Order of Alfonso X, the Wise, "adapting its norms to the social conditions of the present time and to the democratic principles on which the legal system is based."