Spain – Order of Charles III Miniature (Real y Muy Distinguida Orden de Carlos III, Miniatura)
The Order of Charles III (Orden de Carlos III) is Spain’s most prestigious state order, originally instituted by King Charles III on September 19, 1771.
This miniature version is a rare and highly sought-after collector’s piece, often worn as part of formal attire or medal bars. Miniatures were typically given to recipients of full-sized decorations, allowing them to display their honor in formal settings without wearing the larger insignia.
Specifications
Institution: Established on September 19, 1771, by King Charles III.
Type: Miniature decoration (usually worn on a medal bar or ribbon).
Dimensions: 40.54 mm (height) x 25.82 mm (width).
Material: Silver gilt with enamel details.
Condition:
One ball finial missing from the cross (please refer to pictures).
Chipped enamel, reducing aesthetic appeal but maintaining historical value.
Hard-to-find miniature version, making it highly collectible.
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
White-enamel Maltese cross with ball finials (one missing).
Fleur-de-lis motifs in each quadrant, symbolizing Bourbon royal heritage.
Central Medallion:
Superimposed figure of the Virgin Mary, depicted in a white dress with a blue cloak.
Encircled by a blue enamel ring, creating a striking contrast.
Reverse (Back)
Central Medallion:
Monogram cipher of King Charles III (intertwined letters "C" and "III" in gold).
Set on a blue enamel field, reinforcing royal connection.
White enamel ring inscription: “VIRTUTI ET MERITO” ("Virtue and Merit" – the motto of the Order).
Purpose of Miniature Medals
Miniatures were designed for formal wear, allowing recipients to display their honor in a smaller, more discreet form.
Often worn on evening attire, uniforms, or court dress.
Reserved for members of the Order who had received the full-size version.
Significance of the Order of Charles III
Established to reward extraordinary service to Spain and the Crown.
Awarded for diplomatic, military, civil, and cultural contributions.
The motto “Virtuti et Merito” ("Virtue and Merit") reflects its strict merit-based nature.
Hierarchy of the Order
This miniature corresponds to a higher-ranking grade, likely an Officer or Commander-level recipient:
Collar (Collar de la Orden) – Reserved for royalty and heads of state.
Grand Cross (Gran Cruz) – For high-ranking officials.
Commander (Comendador) – Awarded to senior military, government, and academic figures.
Officer (Oficial) – Mid-ranking grade (likely the basis for this miniature).
Knight (Caballero/Dama) – Entry-level grade.
This Spain – Order of Charles III Miniature is a rare and historically significant piece, awarded for distinguished service to Spain.
Authentic miniature medal, rarely seen in the collector’s market.
Exquisite silver gilt craftsmanship, despite minor damage.
Important symbol of Spain’s most prestigious civilian and chivalric order.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess condition, enamel quality, and overall presentation.