World Orders, Decorations and Medals

Cross for Vitoria 1813, white and red enamelled gold cross with green enamelled wreath between the arms, surmounted by a gold crown, the obverse medallion with three crossed swords tied by a ribbon which is inscribed ‘Iruracvat’, the reverse medallion inscribed ‘Recompensa de la Batalla de Vitoria’, sold with incorrect ribbon, some minor chips to the enamel, otherwise nearly extremely fine and rare

See illustration

This decoration was founded on 2 April, 1815, by King Ferdinand VII, to commemorate the battle of Vitoria fought on 21 June, 1813. This battle was Wellington’s decisive victory and was followed by the invasion of France, which induced Napoleon to free the captive King, Ferdinand VII, and permit his return to the throne of Spain.