Spain, Franco Period. An Order Of Isabella The Catholic, Miniature Knight I Class, C.1940

(Orden de Isabel la Católica). Instituted 1815 by King Ferdinand VII. 1938-1975 issue. In bronze gilt, an enameled red Maltese cross, presenting rays in each quadrant, the obverse exhibiting a central medallion, with plain reverse centre, surmounted by an enameled green laurel wreath, measuring 13.21 mm (w) x 24.83 mm (h - inclusive of integral ring), with toned bronze and lost of enamels, accompanied by original silk ribbon, good.

Footnote: The Order of Isabella the Catholic was instituted in Spain as the Royal and American Order of Isabella the Catholic by royal decree of King Fernando VII/Ferdinand VII on March 24, 1815. The name was modified in 1889, when the Spanish Crown abandoned its intentions of ruling Latin America and overseas. The Order is currently active in Spain, and it is conferred to foreigners and Spanish citizens either women or men for meritorious civil acts, especially those that foster the relationships between Spain and other nations.

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.