Italian Republic. An Order of Merit of the Italian Republic; Grand Cross by S. Johnson
Italy (Republic); Grand Cross Badge in silver gilt with white enamels, crown suspension in silver gilt with red, green, white and black enamels, measuring 71 mm x 95.7 mm inclusive of its crown suspension, missing a green enamelled jewel in the base of the crown on the obverse; and Breast Star: four-piece construction, silver gilt with white enamelled insignia, mounted to an eight-pointed silver star base, maker marked "ARTURO POZZI GALLERIA COLONNA 12 ROMA" on the reverse cartouche, 82 mm x 82.7 mm, vertical pinback, intact enamels. Near extremely fine. In an alternate maker's hardshelled case of issue, Republic of Italy coat-of-arms on the lid, maker marked "S. Johnson MILANO ROMA" on the inside lid, lightly soiled raised platform with recessed medal bed for the Badge and slotted for the Breast Star, scuffing evident on the exterior, case very fine.

