Italy, Kingdom. An Order Of The Crown Of Italy, Grand Cross, By E. Gardino, C.1925 Archive 18th December 1973

18th December 1973

within a wreath of oak leaves

on a 122 mm x 239 mm x 41 mm high black marble base with a blue felt protective pad on the bottom

Footnote: early Franco period insignia is of far superior quality and scarcer in comparison to post 1960 issued insignia

Lemke managed to lead his unit into US captivity rather than becoming prisoners of the Russians

Italy, Kingdom. An Order Of The Crown Of Italy, Grand Cross, By E. Gardino, C.1925 Archive 18th December 1973Grand Cross Badge: in Gold with red, white, blue, green and black enamels, measuring 50 mm in diameter, chipping evident in the blue enamels on the obverse centrepiece, on its original full length sash; and Breast Star: insignia in Gold with red, white, blue, green and black enamels, mounted to an eight pointed silver star base, with alternating faceted and smooth rays, maker marked "E. GARDINO SUCC. CRAVANZOLA ROMA" on the reverse cartouche,