Large gilt-edged white enamel Greek cross with gilt ball-tipped finials, an eagle with outstretched wings between each arm, on elaborate swivel suspension in the form of a castellated wall with three towers, green, white and red enamel inserts at the base and loop for neck ribbon suspension; the face with a five-pointed gilt star imposed centrally; the reverse identical; a small chip to the white enamel of the face of the crown suspension; height excluding suspension loop 69.74mm (2.75 inches), width 52.4 mm (2.06 inches); on original full neck ribbon with ties; in original fitted case of issue by Arturo Pozzi of Rome with the gilt metal arms of the Italian Republic on the lid.
The Order was founded on 3 March 1951 to be awarded to those who render notable service to the Italian Republic and is open equally to Italian and non-Italian citizens.
A good older example.
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