Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, Grand Cross Set by Johnson, 1970

Instituted March 3, 1951. Type I (1951-2001). In Silver, the Grand Cross presenting a white enamel cross with eagles in each quadrant and a central five point star, the reverse mirrors the obverse, surmounted by a large crown, measures 70.7 mm (w) x 100.0 mm (h), worn on original full length sash, enamels intact, light gilt wear, in extremely fine condition. The Star of the Order, featuring an eight point silver star with faceted rays, the obverse presenting a white enamel cross with eagles in each quadrant and a central five point star, the reverse features a single vertical pin suspension, reverse cartouche denoting Cravanzola E. Gardino as the maker, marked 925 denoting silver fineness and MI 858 denoting Milan 1970, measures 82.7 mm (w) x 84.4 mm (h), weighs 87.62 grams, light wear, in extremely fine condition. 

Accompanied by a miniature in silver, symbolism matching the star, reverse plain marked 925 denoting silver manufacture, measures 19.7 mm (w), in very fine condition. 

Contained in its original case of issue, a green leatherette exterior, creme coloured medal bed interior with silk lid marked Cravanzola Succ E. Gardino, measures 170 mm (w) x 310 mm (l) x 45 mm (d), hinge and clasp functional, light wear, in very fine condition.