Italy. A Lot of Three Long Service Crosses

1. Long Service Cross 25 Years Service, Gold Grade

In silver gilt, with Roman Numerals XXV on obverse, reverse bearing Monogram of Victor Emanuel, marked “ARG/UM R”, measuring 36.02mm (w) x 37.70mm (h- to top of ring suspension), weighing at 15.6 grams, original ribbon, near extremely fine.

Footnote: The Long Service Cross was instituted on November 8, 1900 by Royal Decree No. 358 and awarded to officers who had actively served for at least twenty-five years in the Royal Army, Navy and later, the Air Force.

2. Long Service Cross for 16 Years Military Service,

In silver, with Roman Numerals XVI on obverse, reverse bearing Monogram of Victor Emanuel, marked “ARG/UM R”, measuring 36.26mm (w) x 39.93mm (h- to top of ring suspension), weighing at 15.6 grams, original ribbon, near extremely fine.

This Medal is associated with the Long Service Cross, which was instituted in 1900 during the Kingdom of Italy. The modern Award is awarded to all ranks of the military in recognition of long and meritorious service within the military of the Italian Republic. The Silver Cross (for 16 years) is conferred upon enlisted men and soldiers for 216 years of service within the Army, Navy, or Air Force, and the ribbon features no additional designs.

3. Italian Red Cross Long Service Cross,

In gilt with the Red Cross Insignia on the obverse, reverse bearing “XXV”, unmarked, measuring at 38.04mm (w) x 43.92mm (h- to top of ring suspension) and weighing at 17.3 grams, original ribbon, extremely fine. 

This Cross is associated with the Long Service Cross of the Italian Red Cross, which was instituted in 1917 during the Kingdom of Italy. The modern Award continues to be awarded to military and civilian personnel in the Italian Red Cross in recognition of meritorious and faithful service. The Gold Cross is awarded to Officers for 25 years of service within the Italian Red Cross.