San Marino. An Order of San Marino, Grand Cross Set, c. 1915

Instituted in 1859. The Grand Cross Badge in silver, consisting of a white-enameled cross with towers in each corner, the obverse centerpieces features an icon of Saint Marinus, surrounded by a blue-enameled ring with the words SAN MARINO PROTETTORE, the reverse centerpiece shows a shield, surrounded by a blue-enameled ring with the words MERITO CIVILE E MILITARE, surmounted by a hollow crown, inclusive of crown suspension119  mm (h) x 75 mm (w), enamels intact, worn on a blue and white sash, extremely fine condition. Accompanied by the Grand Cross Star, an eight-pointed star, each made of five quills, superimposed by a white-enamled cross with laurels in each corner, the obverse centerpiece features the words RELINQUO VOS LIBEROS AB UTROQUO HOMINE on a blue-enameled field, reverse pin with the maker’s cartouche ALBERIT & C VIA No. BX04 MILANO, reverse maker’s mark denoting .800 silver fineness and unidentifiable silversmith’s hallmark,  92 mm, evidence of oxidation on reverse, some gilt wear, extremely fine condition. Included is a miniature of the badge. Housed in a dark red case, in very fine condition. 

Footnote: The Order of San Marino was instituted on 13 August 1859 and is awarded for outstanding civil or military services to the Republic, or for humanitarian, artistic, political or scientific accomplishment. It is only ever awarded to people who are not citizens of the Republic of San Marino. The order is presented in five grades: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight.