Italy, Kingdom. A Fascist Youth "Gioventù Italiana del Littorio" (GIL) Cross of Merit for Children
(Croce al merito gioventu Italiana del littorio). In silvered bronze with dark red enamels, measuring 37.2 mm (w) x 43.5 mm (h), chipping and crazing evident in the red enamels, scattered silvering wear, original ribbon, near fine.
Footnote: The Gioventù Italiana del Littorio (GIL) was the consolidated youth movement of the National Fascist Party of Italy that was established in 1937, to replace the Opera Nazionale Balilla (ONB). It was created to supervise and influence the minds of all youths, that was effectively directed against the influence of the Catholic Church on youths.