(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana). Instituted in 1951. Fullsize: four-piece construction, in silver gilt with red, white, green and black enamels, measuring 55.5 mm (w) x 74.5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, intact enamels, green oxidation evident on the reverse of the crown suspension, on its original full-length neck ribbon; and Miniature: in silver gilt, measuring 17.5 mm (w) x 28.7 mm (h) inclusive of its crown suspension, original ribbon. Together, near extremely fine. Accompanied by its enamelled Rosette, measuring 12 mm in diameter with button hole attachment, in their hardshelled case of issue, forest green leather-look exterior, gilt Italian Republic insignia affixed to the lid, inside lid in royal blue satin, padded and bearing a foil jeweller's label inscribed "GIOIELLERIA-OREFICERIA / ARGENTERIA / DONADELLI G. / di P. ZANASCO / VICENZA", medal bed in violet felt with recessed areas for the badge, miniature and rosette, measuring 125.5 mm (w) x 170 mm (h) x 26.5 mm (d), exhibiting scuffing on the exterior, along with light wear in the violet felt of the medal bed, case better than 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 are OMRI. The order effectively replaced the 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; I Class Knight Grand Cross; II Class Grand Officer; III Class Commander; IV Class Officer; and V Class Knight.