Italian States, Tuscany. An Order Of Saint Joseph, Grand Cross Badge, C.1900

(Ordine di San Giuseppe). Instituted March 19 1807, by Grand Duke Ferdinand III. In silver gilt, a large Grand Cross comprising a six armed Maltese cross with ball finials, and three smooth red enamel rays in each quadrant, the obverse medallion presents the figure of Saint Joseph surrounded by a red ring inscribed UBIQUE SIMILIS (Everywhere the Same), the reverse feature the founders initials with the year 1807, surrounded in a decorative red ring, the cross is surmounted by a large crown, measures 74mm (w) x 102.4mm (h – inclusive of cross adorned surmounting crown, weighs 96.8 grams, unmarked, minor enamel flake to red suspension in the knee of the 12 o’clock arm the crown, otherwise enamels intact and in near mint condition.

Accompanied by a small segment of a sash ribbon and a rosette (not attached to ribbon).