Spanish Civil Order, Enamel Star, Mid-20th Century
Key Information:
• Country: Spain.
• Award: Order of Civil Merit (Orden del Mérito Civil).
• Type: Breast star (plaque).
• Period: Mid-20th century, approx. 1950s–1970s.
• Status: Official Spanish state order.
• Dimensions approx.: 73.60 x 73.46 mm.
Medal Design:
For condition, please refer to the pictures, all dimensions are approx.
Eight-pointed star with blue enameled arms set on a radiating silvered base. Central oval medallion with an allegorical female figure, surrounded by a blue enameled ring inscribed “AL MÉRITO CIVIL”. The badge is surmounted by a Spanish crown. Reverse fitted with a vertical pinback system.
Condition:
Overall age-related wear. Enamel shows surface wear and small imperfections. The connecting element / hinge area is cracked, and the originality of this connector is uncertain; this is clearly visible in the photos. Patina, discoloration, and wear consistent with age. Please examine all images carefully.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Order of Civil Merit is an official Spanish state decoration established in 1926 and awarded for distinguished civil service to the Spanish state. Breast stars of this type were worn by senior recipients and represent a classic example of mid-20th century Spanish phaleristics.
Summary:
Original Spanish Order of Civil Merit breast star from the mid-20th century. An official state award with honest wear, enamel imperfections, and a damaged connector as described. Suitable as a collectible or reference example.
For the condition, please refer to the pictures.