Spain, Francoist Era. An Order of Civil Merit, I Class Grand Class Set, Type II (1942-1975), Cased

(Orden del Mérito Civil). Instituted in 1926. Grand Cross Badge: multi-piece construction, in silver gilt with blue, white and green enamels and bearing the Franco crown, measuring 48.8 mm (w) x 75 mm (h) inclusive of its wreath suspension and integral ring, on its original full-length sash with decorative moiré and large bow-tie; and Breast Star: multi-piece construction, insignia in silver with blue and white enamels and bearing the Franco crown, mounted to an eight-pointed star base, each star point with faceted emanating rays, measuring 74 mm (w) x 76.5 mm (h), very light scuffing evident on the enamels. Together, extremely fine. In their hardshelled case of issue, maroon pebbled exterior, inside lid in white satin and padded, base with a platform in black felt and housing two angled prongs to secure the Breast Star in place, measuring 77 mm (w) x 267 mm (h) x 71 mm (d), light scuffing on the exterior, case near extremely fine. 

Footnote: The Order of Civil Merit was instituted on June 25, 1926 and is awarded to Spanish government employees for meritorious service, and to Spaniards and foreigners for extraordinary services to the nation, in seven grades: Collar, Grand Cross, Commander by Number, Commander, Officer, Knight and Silver Cross.