Italy, Kingdom. An Order of the Italian Crown, Grand Officer, by Raviolo E. Gardino, c.1910

(Ordine della Corona d'Italia). Instituted in 1868. Grand Officer Badge: In Gold, a white enamelled cross with Savoy knots in each quadrant, the center medallion features a Lombardy crown with enamel details on a blue enamelled field, the reverse medallion features a black enamelled crowned eagle with red and white shield on chest, measures 51.7mm (w) x 54.3mm (h – inclusive of integral ring), weighs 22.2 grams (including ribbon), very minor enamel chip on obverse 6 o’clock arm, a few small knocks, remains in extremely fine condition. Accompanied by a Grand Officer Star: in silver, an eight point star with large ball finials and clusters of faceted rays, the obverse presents a superimposed white enamel cross with Savoy knots in each quadrant, the center medallion features a Lombardy crown with enamel details on a blue enamelled field, the reverse bears a single pin assembly, maker cartouche in the center denoting CRAVANZOLA SUCC. RAVIOLO & GARDINO, measures 72.6mm (w) x 72.9mm (h), weighs 47.8 grams, light enamel wear including a hairline crack on the 9 o’clock arm, dark patina on ball finials, in near extremely fine condition.

Contained in its case of issue, a red leatherette exterior with crowned VE cypher impressed on the lid, the interior lid’s crème coloured silk is maker mark, stamped L. RAVIOLO E. GARDINO SUCCESSORI DCO CRAVANZOLA, the base is a black recessed velvet medalbed with section for ribbon at top, hinge and clasp functional, measures 108mm (w) x 225mm (l) x 35mm (d), scuffing to exterior edges, in very fine condition.