Italy, Republic. An Order Of Merit Of The Italian Republic, Grand Cross Set, In Gold, By E. Gardino Succ Cravanzola Archive reverse centre with national design

reverse centre with national design

one faded to a sepia-tone

Footnote: The Order was instituted on April 13

1872 and bestowed on officers for 25 years of distinguished service

Italy, Republic. An Order Of Merit Of The Italian Republic, Grand Cross Set, In Gold, By E. Gardino Succ Cravanzola Archive reverse centre with national designType I (1951 2001). In 18K Gold (!), a white enamelled cross pattee with a ball finial at the end of each arm, a five point star in the center of the cross and eagles in each quadrant, the reverse mirrors the obverse, the badge is surmounted by a large crown with red, black, green, and white enamel details, marked 750 on top of crown, measures 68. 35mm (w) x 90. 8mm (h inclusive of crown), weighs 47. 7 grams, includes the full length period sash,