Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit, I Class Grand Cross, by E.Gardino, c.1955

(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana). Instituted in 1951. Badge: in silver gilt with red, white and green enamels, measuring 71 mm (w) x 96 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, chipping and loss evident in the red enamels at the base of the crown, on its original full-length sash incorporating a decorative moiré pattern; and Breast Star: insignia in silver gilt with white enamels, mounted to an eight-pointed star base, each star point with five faceted rays, maker marked "E. GARDINO SUCC. CRAVANZOLA ROMA" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 84 mm (w) x 84.7 mm (h), vertical pinback, intact enamels. Near extremely fine. Accompanied by a 12.5 mm in diameter rosette, 9.5 mm (w) x 10.5 (h) silver gilt and white enamelled insignia affixed, maker marked "CRAVANZOLA ROMA" on the button hole attachment. In their hardshelled case of issue, gilt Italian Republic insignia on the lid, maker marked "GIOIELLERIA Cravanzola Succ. Gardino ROMA" on the inside lid, raised platform with recessed and slotted medal beds, light scuffing and wear spots evident on the exterior, case very fine.

Footnote: The Order of Merit of the Italian Republic was founded as the senior order of knighthood by the second President of the Italian Republic, Luigi Einaudi in 1951. The highest ranking honour of the Republic, it is awarded for "merit acquired by the nation" in the fields of literature, the arts, economy, public service, and social, philanthropic and humanitarian activities and for long and conspicuous service in civilian and military careers. The post-nominal letters for the order areOMRI. The order effectively replaced as national orders the Civil Order of Savoy (1831), the Order of the Crown of Italy (1868), the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus (1572) and the Supreme Order of the Most Holy Annunciation (1362). The order is bestowed by decree of the President of the Italian Republic, as head of the orders of knighthood, on the recommendation of the President of the Council of Ministers. Except in exceptional circumstances, no one can be awarded for the first time a rank higher than Knight. The minimum age requirement is normally 35. It is awarded in six classes: Knight Grand Cross with Collar; 1st Class, Knight Grand Cross; 2nd Class, Grand Officer; 3rd Class, Commander; 4th Class, Officer; and 5th Class, Knight.