Gilt-edged white enamel cross Moline, the arms with gilt ball finials, with silver gilt towers between the arms, on swivel crown suspension; the face with a circular central medallion bearing the polychrome enamel half-length portrait of Saint Marinus in monk’s habit within a deep blue enamel ring inscribed in gilt letters ‘SAN MARINO PROTETTORE’ (Saint Marinus protector); the reverse with a central circular white enamel medallion bearing the silver-gilt arms of San Marino in relief within a deep blue enamel ring inscribed ‘MERITO CIVILE’ (Civil Merit); minute chips to the enamel of the upper ends of the lateral arms; ribbon replaced but correct. The Order of San Marino was instituted on 13 August 1859 to be awarded for outstanding civil or military services to the Republic of San Marino and for notable achievements in the fields of arts, sciences and politics and for notable charitable works. San Marino is the third smallest state in Europe (after the Vatican City and Monaco). Founded by Saint Marinus, in AD301, it is the oldest surviving republic in existence. A ruggedly mountainous country, it is completely surrounded by Italy and has a population of less than 30,000, with another 5,000 Sammarinese citizens resident abroad. For this reason, its orders are scarce. This example was for many years in the Collection of the American Numismatic Society. An older example with impeccable provenance and in fine condition.
|