Italy, Kingdom. An Order Of The Crown Of Italy, I Class Grand Cross Star In Gold, By E. Gardino, C.1920

(Ordine della Corona d'Italia). Instituted in 1868. Multi-piece construction, insignia in 18K Gold with red, white, blue and black enamels, mounted to an eight-pointed star base, each star point with five rays, three of which are faceted, with a single ray between each star point, maker marked "E. GARDINO SUCC. CRAVANZOLA / ROMA" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 89 mm in diameter x 90 mm (h), vertical pinback, many of the enamelled beads on the crown have been lost to time, crazing evident in the blue enamelled disk backing the crown, better than very fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, maroon dimpled exterior, monogram of King Victor Emanuele III in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inside lid in off-white satin, padded and maker marked "CRAVANZOLA / Succ. E. Gardino / Gioielleria / ROMA", black felt medal bed slotted with a raised tab, clasp closure, dual-hinged, measuring 110.5 mm (w) x 111 mm (h) x 35.5 mm (d), exhibiting scuffing on the exterior, light fraying evident in the off-white satin on the inside lid, case also better than very fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Crown of Italy was founded as a national order in 1868 by King Vittorio Emanuele II, to commemorate the unification of Italy in 1861. It was awarded in five degrees for civilian and military merit: Knight Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight. Compared with the older Order of Saint Maurice and Saint Lazarus (1572), the Order of the Crown of Italy was awarded more liberally and could be conferred on non-Catholics as well. Eventually, it became a requirement for a person to have already received the Order of the Crown of Italy in at least the same degree before receiving the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus. The order has been suppressed by law since the foundation of the Republic in 1946.