(Ordine della Corona d'Italia). Instituted in 1868. Multi-piece construction, in 18K Gold with red, white, blue, green and black enamels, weighing 8.6 grams, unmarked, measuring 35 mm in diameter x 39 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, chipping evident in the white enamels on the edge of the arm at 9 o'clock on the reverse, otherwise the enamels are intact, original First War and 1930's period ribbon, near extremely fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, red pebbled exterior, crowned monogram of King Umberto I (1878-1900) in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inside lid and base lined in violet satin, inset platform incorporating a recessed medal bed in violet felt, push release, measuring 57 mm (w) x 91.3 mm (h) x 19 mm (d), light discolouration on the exterior, case also near extremely 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: Knight Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight. 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.