(Ordine della Corona d'Italia). Instituted in 1868. Fullsize: in 18K Gold with red, white, blue, green and black enamels, unmarked, weighing 7.9 grams, measuring 36.2 mm (w) x 39 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, large rosette on its original ribbon; and Miniature: in 18K Gold with red, white, blue, green and black enamels, unmarked, weighing 1.8 grams, measuring 16.3 mm (w) x 18 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, original ribbon. Intact enamels, extremely fine. In their hardshelled case of issue, cypher of King Vittorio Emanuelle III on the lid, "LUIGI LORDSCHNEIDER TRIESTE" manufacturer's label placed on the padded white satin inside lid, white felt base incorporating recessed beds for the badge and miniature, push release catch, dual-hinged, measuring 98 mm (w) x 127 mm (h) x 23 mm (h), scuffing evident on the exterior, light soling present in the white felt on the medal bed, case fine.
Footnote: The Order of the Crown of Italy was founded as a national order in 1868 by King Vittorio Emanuele II, to commemorate the unification of Italy in 1861. It was awarded in five degrees for civilian and military merit. Compared with the older Order of Saint Maurice and Saint Lazarus (1572), the Order of the Crown of Italy was awarded more liberally and could be conferred on non-Catholics as well. Eventually, it became a requirement for a person to have already received the Order of the Crown of Italy in at least the same degree before receiving the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus. The order has been suppressed by law since the foundation of the Republic in 1946.