Italy, Kingdom. A Voluntary Militia for National Security (MSVN) “Blackshirts” Fez

This is an extremely well preserved Voluntary Militia for National Security (Milizia Volontaria per la Sicurezza Nazionale) member’s fez, constructed of fine black doeskin wool. The top of the fez bears a black threaded tassel that hangs over the sides. The fez is surrounded by a fold-down panel that is adorned with a band of woven black machine-embroidered ribbon. A rolled, black threaded cord is stitched to the front and rear, and hangs over the side of the fez. The front bears a fasces insignia constructed of machine-embroidered gold bullion wire on a black wool background. The fez is unmarked and measures approximately 195 mm in diameter, with a height of 90 mm. While minor material fatigue is evident, the fez is in an otherwise extremely fine condition.