Spain, Kingdom. An Order Of Naval Merit, I Class With White Distinction, C.1920

Orden del Mérito Naval. Instituted in 1866. 1875-1931 Issue. Two-piece construction, in silvered bronze with blue and white enamels, measuring 35.5 mm (w) x 63.8 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, intact enamels, wear spot on the silvered band above the cross exposing the underlying bronze base, original ribbon suspended from a traditional Spanish-style horizontal hanger with pinback, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of Naval Merit was established on August 3, 1866 by Queen Isabella II as the Order of Naval Merit and amended in 1918, 1926, 1931, 1938, 1942, 1976, 1995, 2003 and 2007. The White Decoration version is awarded for actions, deeds or distinguished service during missions or ordinary or extraordinary service in the armed forces or in connection with defense of the country.