Spain, Franco’s period. A Miniature Order of Health, Grand Cross Star, c.1950
(Orden Civil de Sanidad). Instituted 1943 by General Francisco Franco. Franco’s period issue. In silver gilt, a ball-tipped enameled white Maltese Cross, featuring beaded gilt field in each quadrant, with central medallion depicting an enameled red time of period Spanish coat of arms, surrounded by the engraved inscription AL MERITO SANITARIO (To Sanitary Merit), reverse with buttonhole for attachment, measuring 21.39 (w) x 21.25 mm (h), presenting stained white enamels, extremely good. Footnote: The Civil Order of Health was established by the government of Spain on July 27, 1943. It was founded as successor of the Epidemic Cross awards. It is awarded to recognize foreign and national individuals, and organizations, that provide outstanding service and develop 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.

