Italy, Republic. An Order Of Merit Of The Italian Republic, Grand Cross Set

(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana). Instituted in 1951. A fantastic Grand Cross Set comprising a Grand Cross sash badge, in silver gilt, featuring a white enamel cross with a gilt five point star in the center of the cross and a ball finial at each end of each arm, with eagles in each quadrant, reverse mirrors the obverse, the cross is surmounted by a large crown of the republic, measures 70.45mm (w) x 94.60mm (h - inclusive of crown suspension and integral ring), 145.78 grams (including sash), worn on the original full length green and red silk sash, exhibiting silver gilt wear throughout, enamels intact, sash showing some discolouration and fading from light, remains in near extremely fine condition. 

The Star of the Order, in silver gilt, an eight point star demonstrating clusters of five faceted rays, the central insignia superimposed on the obverse featuring a white enamel cross with a gilt five point star in the center of the cross and a ball finial at each end of each arm, with eagles in each quadrant, reverse with a raised barrel hinge, vertical round wire pinback, and rightward-facing round wire catch, the cartouche features the maker mark of ARTURO POZZI ROMA, measures 82.81 mm (w) x 82.63 mm (h), weighs 78.55 grams, loss of silver gilt hinge and clasp functional, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition. 

Footnote: Born in 1898 in Mexico, Luis Padilla Nervo developed an early passion for politics while studying law at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. His career on the global stage began in 1945, when he signed the United Nations Charter on behalf of Mexico at the San Francisco Conference. Padilla Nervo made history as Mexico’s first Ambassador to the United Nations and served as a member of the United Nations Security Council. In 1951, he reached another milestone by becoming President of the General Assembly during its sixth session. After his time at the UN, Padilla Nervo held several key positions in Mexico’s government, serving in the Ministries of Education, Interior, and Labor. His distinguished career continued with his election to the International Court of Justice, where he served as a judge from 1964 to 1973—becoming only the second Mexican to hold that position. In recognition of his lifetime of achievements, he was honored with the prestigious Grand Crosses from over 30 nations celebrating his enduring contributions to diplomacy, law, and public service.