Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit of the Italian Republic, Grand Cross Set with Star in Gold, by Cravanzola

(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana, Commentadore). Instituted March 3rd, 1951. A Grand Cross Set in Case, comprising the Grand Cross Badge in silver gilt, featuring a white enamelled cross with eagles in each quadrant, a five point star in the center of the cross, reverse mirrors the obverse, surmounted by a crown with white, red, green and black painted accents, measures 70.4mm (w) x 94.9 mm (h - inclusive of crown suspension), worn on full length grand cross sash, marked 925 on the suspension ring, enamels intact, bar within crown attaching cross is partially broken, in extremely fine condition. The Star of the Order, a silver eight point star with faceted rays, the center in 18K Gold has been superimposed on the star featuring a white enamelled cross with eagles in each quadrant, a five point star in the center of the cross, the reverse bearing a vertica pin assembly, maker cartouche in the center denoting CRAVANZOLA E. GARDINO SUCC., measures 85.6 mm (w) x 85.1 mm (h), weighs 64.5 grams, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition. Accompanied by a boutonniere featuring a Grand Cross device in the center. 

Contained in its original case of issue, a green leatherette exterior with Italian Republic insignia, the interior creme coloured velvet medal bed with silk lid marked Cravanzola Succ E. Gardino, measures 170 mm (w) x 310 mm (l) x 55 mm (d), small areas of damage to the exterior, hinge and clasp functional, remains in extremely fine condition.