In silver with white enamels, measuring 54.7 mm (w) x 54.7 mm (h), vertical pinback, chipping evident in the white enamels all four arms near the central junction point, fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, red dimpled exterior of all sides, white Maltese cross on the lid, inside lid lined in red satin, padded and maker marked "CRAVANZOLA Succ. E. GARDINO GIOIELLERIA ROMA", medal bed in red felt and slotted, exhibiting wear on the exterior, case very fine.
Footnote: The Order of Merit (Military Division) of the Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta, often popularly referred to as the "Knights of Malta", was in existence certainly as long ago as the early years of the Twelfth Century and is still extant today. Originally based in Jerusalem, the Order moved to Tripoli following the capture of Jerusalem by Saladin in 1187 and to Rhodes by way of Cyprus after the fall of Acre in 1291. In 1522, Suleiman the Magnificent took Rhodes and the Order scattered. Charles V granted the Order the island of Malta and the Order settled here from 1530 to 1798 when Napoleon Bonaparte captured the island en route for Egypt. In 1834, the order established a new headquarters in Rome and took on its current humanitarian and ceremonial role with Grand Masters being appointed by the Pope.