Italy, Kingdom Of Two Sicilies. A Royal Order Of Francis I, Commander Breast Star, c.1870, by Kretly

(Reale Ordine di Francesco I). Instituted on September 28, 1829 by Francis I. A near mint Commander Breast Star, in silver, a large Maltese cross with faceted arms and large ball finials, a Fleur de Lis in thin gold applique on the silver, the obverse medallion in Gold features a crowned F.I. cypher, surrounded by a green enamelled wreath, and blue enamelled ring inscribed DE REGE OPTIME MERITO, the reverse presents a single vertical pin flanked by dual stays, center maker cartouche of No. 46 KRETLY PALAIS ROYAL PARIS in the center, measures 76.2 mm (w) x 77.0 mm (h), weighs 63.58 grams, marked on the pin with a boars head denoting silver composition and French manufacture post 1893, a spectacular star in near mint condition.