Spanish Fascist State period decoration – full-size breast star with miniature companion piece
Key Information:
Country: Spain
Decoration: Order of Military Merit (White Division)
Class: 1st Class Grand Cross Breast Star with Miniature Star
Period: Fascist State era (Francoist Spain, c. 1940s–1970s)
Dimensions:
Full-size breast star: approx. 62.29 mm x 62.61 mm
Miniature star: approx. 20.22 mm x 20.10 mm
Materials: Silvered and gilded metal, white enamel, red enamel arms, central medallion with Castile & León motifs
Medal Design:
Large multi-rayed breast star with white enamel cross superimposed.
Central medallion with quartered arms (castles of Castile and lions of León).
Crown surmount (copper-toned area shows wear).
Rich gilt highlights on lions and castles, contrasted with silvered starburst background.
Accompanied by a matching miniature star for wear on civilian attire.
Condition:
The full-size star shows oxidation, patina, and wear consistent with age.
Enamel generally intact with some scratches and minor loss.
Reverse with long horizontal pin and securing catch; intact and functional.
Miniature star with darkened patina; enamel intact.
Please refer to detailed high-resolution photographs for exact condition.
Historical and Collectible Significance:
The Order of Military Merit is one of Spain’s most respected decorations, awarded for distinguished service in the armed forces.
The White Division (enamel cross) indicated non-combat merit, while the Red Division recognized combat valor.
This is a genuine example from the Fascist State period under General Francisco Franco (1939–1975), making it historically important for collectors of Spanish, European, and WWII/Cold War-era decorations.
Complete sets with both the full-size breast star and the miniature star are much scarcer and highly desirable.
Summary:
A fine original Spanish Order of Military Merit, 1st Class Grand Cross Breast Star with Miniature, White Division (non-combat), from the Francoist period. Displays beautifully with intact enamels, gilt details, and an attractive patina of age. Rare opportunity to acquire a complete set for advanced collectors of Spanish and European phaleristics.