Italy, Republic. A Military Order of Italy, V Class, Knight, c.1955

(Ordine Militare d'Italia). Instituted in 1947 (based on an 1815 order). In silver gilt with red, white and green enamels, measuring 40.8 mm (w) x 62.5 mm (h) inclusive of its trophy of arms suspension, original ribbon, chipping and crazing evident in the red enamels on the reverse centrepiece, repair evident on the loop, fine.

Footnote: The Military Order of Italy is the highest military order of the Italian Republic and the former Kingdom of Italy. It was founded as the Military Order of Savoy, a national order by the King of Sardinia, Vittorio Emanuele I, Duke of Savoy in 1815. The order is awarded for distinguished wartime conduct of units of the armed forces or individual personnel that has "proven expertise, a sense of responsibility and valour." The order was continued on the unification of Italy in 1861 and was revived, under its new name, following the foundation of the Republic in 1946. It is bestowed by decree of the President of the Italian Republic, head of the order, on the recommendation of the Minister of Defence. It is awarded in five grades: I Class, Knight Grand Cross; II Class, Grand Officer; III Class, Commander; IV Class, Officer; V Class, Knight.