(Ordine della Corona d'Italia). Instituted in 1861 by Victor Emmanuel II. In silver, an eight point star composed of clusters of seven alternating smooth and faceted rays with small ball finials, the obverse medallion features an iron crown with multicoloured enamels details on a blue enamel field, surrounded by a white enamel ring inscribed VICT.EMMAN.II.REX.ITALIAE.MDCCCLXVI., encircled by a singular faceted silver gilt ring, the 12 o’clock arm presents a left facing black enamelled eagle with outspread wings and a red and white enamelled cross on its chest, the reverse is plain with a singular pin assembly, eagle attached to reverse by metal wires on reverse 12 o’clock arm, unmarked, measures 78.5mm (w) x 79mm (h), weighs 74.8 grams, crown on obverse medallion slightly off center and overlapping on border,
Footnote: The Order was founded by Victor Emmanuel II to commemorate the unification of Italy in 1861. It was the first national Order instituted after the unification of the Kingdom of Italy. This Order was conferred upon Italians and foreign citizens, regardless of religious affiliations, who had rendered extraordinary service to the Kingdom of Italy and the Sovereign within military and civil realms.