History

The Navy Laureate Cross was instituted in Spain by King Ferdinand VII on February 2, 1816. It was awarded in recognition of the members of the Royal Spanish Navy who, by their services in any part of the world, may have contributed to the success in the Peninsular War (1808-1814). Also, it was awarded to the military personnel who served to the Navy force during this War.

The composition of the Cross denoted the rank of the recipient. The Gold Cross was awarded to Chiefs and Officers, while the Silver Cross was conferred upon the lower ranks.

The Cross features a reverse inscription that translates to "For the Valour of the Mariners."

In 1817 King Ferdinand VII authorized the Navy Royal Merit Cross based on the design of thisNavy Laureate Cross with a suspension of crown instead of the laurel wreath. See Navy Royal Merit Cross for more information.