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

(Urdhëri i Skënderbeut). Instituted 1925. Type II (1940-1945). Badge of the order consisting of 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, measuring 53.54 mm (w) x 73.5 mm (h - inclusive of star suspension), with minor chipping red enamel, toned silver, on full length period sash, very fine. Accompanied by the star of the order in silver gilt, a eight point star with clusters of faceted rays, the central medallion in silver gilt featuring an Albanian eagle on a blue enamel field encircled by a green enamel wreath, the reverse with a vertical pin, makers mark on the base of CRAVANZOLA E GARDINO SUCC. ROMA, hallmarked on pin with Italian Sanction mark as well as secondary marking “800” denoting silver purity, measuring 82 mm (w) x 83 mm (h), extremely 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.