Italy, Republic. An Order Of Merit, I Class Grand Cross Star, By Arthuro Pozzi, C.1960 Newly Listed An enameled white Latin cross

An enameled white Latin cross in bronze gilt

and a mason

voluntary enlistment was unregulated and skilled men were joining up and leaving companies with a shortage of skilled labour essential to maintaining the country's war capability

60mm (h – including crown suspension)

Silvered die-stamped zinc alloy

Italy, Republic. An Order Of Merit, I Class Grand Cross Star, By Arthuro Pozzi, C.1960 Newly Listed An enameled white Latin cross(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana). Instituted in 1951. In silver gilt with white enamels, mounted to an eight pointed star base, each star point with five faceted rays, maker marked "ARTURO POZZI GALLERIA COLONNA12 ROMA" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 73. 5 mm (w) x 72. 2 mm (h), vertical pinback, intact enamels, extremely fine. Footnote: The Order of Merit of the Italian Republic was founded as the senior order of knighthood by the