Italy – Kingdom Order of the Crown, Grand Officer Star (II Class)
Country: Italy (Kingdom era)
Order: Order of the Crown of Italy (Ordine della Corona d’Italia)
Class: Grand Officer (II Class) – Breast Star
Type: Breast Star with pinback
Dimensions: Approx. 77.02 mm x 77.24 mm
Reverse: Unmarked
Condition: See photos for condition assessment
Specifications:
Material: Likely silver or silvered base metal with enamel center
Obverse: Silver starburst base with faceted texture, featuring a white enameled Maltese cross overlay with gilt braid between arms. Center medallion is blue enamel with a richly detailed gold crown adorned with simulated gems.
Reverse: Plain metal back with sturdy vertical pin and catch; no visible hallmarks or maker’s marks.
Medal Design:
This is the breast star for the Grand Officer rank of the Order of the Crown of Italy, established by King Victor Emmanuel II in 1868. It was awarded for civil and military merit and represents one of the highest distinctions of the Italian Kingdom. This version was intended to be worn on the right chest with a Commander’s neck badge.
Condition:
Enamel is intact and vibrant with only minor natural age signs
Metal shows honest patina and slight wear typical for original unpolished pieces
Pin and clasp on reverse fully functional
Unmarked, but consistent with authentic early 20th century issues
The Order of the Crown was widely awarded from its inception until the monarchy's end in 1946. As a Grand Officer class, this piece would have been issued only to high-ranking officials, diplomats, or officers. Its elegant design and enamel crown motif make it a favorite among collectors of royal Italian or European decorations.
An attractive and well-preserved Grand Officer breast star of the Order of the Crown of Italy, complete with original period features and impressive size. A desirable addition for collectors of Italian royal orders or high-ranking European orders of chivalry.