History

The Cross of Civil Valor was authorized in Spain by the regency of Maria Cristina on July 9, 1841. It was conferred upon those who risked their lives by restoring the Constitutional Government during the last years of the absolutist government of Ferdinand VII.

The recipients had to belong to some of the following groups: the first group consisted of those who, sentenced to prison, fulfilled the penalty or part of it. The second group was formed by those who, in action or prison, were sentenced to the death penalty. The third group was formed by those who, sentenced to prison, did not serve their sentence.

The Cross consisted of a Breast Star and a Badge. The Breast Star was awarded to the recipients of the first group. The neck Badge was awarded to the recipient from the first and third groups, but with reduced size for the latter.

The Cross features an obverse inscription that translates to "Civil Valor."