(Croce "Fidel et Virtuti" detta "di Mentana"). In silver-nickel, type I (official type), unmarked, measuring 41.7 mm (w) x 49.3 mm (h) inclusive of its laterally-pierced ball suspension, incorrect but period ribbon, very light contact, near extremely fine.
Footnote: The Mentana Cross was instituted by Pope Pius IX in commemoration of the Battle of Mentana, and the other battles that were fought to protect Rome against Garibaldi. The Cross was awarded to Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and all other ranks of men in the Papal Army and French Corps who participated in these battles. The ribbon may be decorated with clasps associated with the battles in which the recipient participated, including "BAGNOREA," "VITERBO," "NEROLA," " ACQUAPENDENTE," " MONTE-LIBRETTI," " MONTE-ROTONDO," “ROMA,” and " MENTANA."

