Spain, Kingdom. A Royal and Distinguished Order of Charles III, Commander, c.1880
(Real y Muy Distinguida Orden de Carlos III). Instituted by King Charles III on September 19, 1771. A lovely decoration, in silver gilt, presenting a blue and white enamel Maltese cross with ball finials, a Fleur de Lis in each quadrant, the obverse medallion presenting a superimposed hand painted image of the Virgin Mary, the reverse presents the cypher of Charles III surrounded by a white ring inscribed VIRTUTI ET MERITO, the badge is surmounted by a gilt wreath, measures 50.48mm (w) x 73.58mm (h – inclusive of wreath suspension and integral ring), weighs 44.1 grams (including ribbon), worn on an original neck ribbon of blue and white silk with ties on each end , enamels intact, light gilt wear, an aged commander in extremely fine condition.