Orders, Decorations and Medals

Spain, Royal Military Order of St Ferdinand, a fine breast star of a Knight 4th class, 72mm, in silver with gold and enamel centre and laurel wreath in gold and enamels, the reverse with broad silver pin, circa 1820-30, some minor enamel chips, otherwise good very fine and scarce £500-600

See Colour Plate VI

Unusually the classes of this order run contrary to the norm, with the 5th class being the equivalent of the Grand Cross, and the 1st class being the lowest. The 4th class was awarded to officers of General rank for services of special distinction.