Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, Commander and Case by S. Johnson

Instituted March 3, 1951. A commander in silver gilt, featuring a white enamelled cross with ball finials and a silver gilt star in the center, eagles with outstretched wings in each quadrant, the reverse mirrors the obverse, the badge is surmounted by a large crown with enamel details, measures 55.4mm (w) x 73.1mm (h – inclusive of crown suspension), weighs 39.0 grams (including ribbon), worn on a neck ribbon, heavy gilt wear, enamels intact, remains in very fine condition. Accompanied by a miniature of the order, in silver and enamels, in very fine condition; a ribbon bar with crown device, and lapel buttonhole rosette, both in very fine condition. All pieces are contained in an original case, green leatherette exterior with a yellow silk interior lid marked S. Johnson MILANO, and a yellow velvet recessed medal bed, measures 136mm (w) x 156.5mm (l) x 23mm (d), marks to exterior, hinge and catch functional, in very fine condition.