(Orden de Isabel la Católica). Instituted by King Ferdinand VII on March 24, 1815. Constructed of Gold, this extremely attractive badge presents a raised red enamelled Maltese cross with clifted ends with a thick heavily faceted Gold boarder with faceted ball finials, with five faceted rays in each quadrant (reverse of rays are smooth), the obverse medallion presents a obverse center features a handmade Order’s insignia with enamel, surrounded by a white enamelled ring inscribed A LA LEALTAD ACRISOLADA (To Pure Loyalty), the reverse medallion features a crowned cypher of Isabella II on a blue enamelled background, surrounded by a white enamelled ring POR ISABEL LA CATOLICA (For Isabel the Catholic), the badge is surmounted by a green enamelled wreath with a period red and white enamelled suspension ring, measures 55mm (w) x 93.75mm (h – inclusive of laurel wreath and enamelled suspension loop), weighs 41.1 gram, very minor cracks in enamel and small chip on reverse base of suspension loop, minor chips to 12 o’clock on blue enamel on reverse medallion, light wear to green enamel in laurel wreath, but otherwise a beautiful decoration in better than extremely fine condition, a striking addition to any collection.
Accompanied by a full length replacement neck ribbon.
Footnote: The Order of Isabella the Catholic (Orden de Isabel la Católica) was instituted as the Royal and American Order of Isabella the Catholic (Real y Americana Orden de Isabella Católica) by royal decree of March 24, 1815. The name of the Order was modified when the Spanish Crown abandoned its intentions of ruling Latin America and overseas on April 15, 1889. This Order is one of the oldest orders in Europe that is still an official reward. Decorations from the First and Second Republics are extremely rare.