Albania, Italian Protectorate. An Order Of Scanderbeg, Grand Cross Badge, By E. Gardino & Cravanzola, C.1940

(Urdhëri i Skënderbeut). Instituted 1925. Type II (1940-1945). A partially-enameled red double-headed Albanian eagle in silver gilt, surmounted by a five-pointed star in gilt, obverse centre featuring an Albanian crown also in silver gilt, with an enameled blue background, surrounded by an enameled green border with superimposed lettering FERT and fasces, reverse displaying circular maker’s cartouche of E.Gardino Succ Cravanzola, Roma, hallmarked with Italian Sanction mark 1934-1944 with silversmith number 66 for Gardino along with TO for Torino, as well as secondary marking “925” denoting silver purity, measuring 53.54 mm (w) x 76.35 mm (h - inclusive of star suspension), with minor chipping red enamel, toned silver, slightly bent heads and central medallion, suspended by period original ribbon with bow, very fine.

Footnote: This Order was instituted by King Zog I during his tenure as President. The Order was awarded to Albanians and foreign civilians in recognition of distinguished services, within any civil or military field, that benefited the Crown. There were originally four grades, but during the Italian Occupancy (1939-1943) the Officer grade was officially added to the Order.