Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Cross Breast Star by Johnson Auction which are topped by a

which are topped by a length of silver aluminum wire piping secured in place with hand stitching

1936 as the Order of the Estonian Red Cross

as he was still too young for overseas service

A beautiful two piece construction eagle in Gold

the emblem is missing all four reverse attachment prongs and the lanyard demonstrates minor material fatigue

Italy, Republic. An Order of Merit, Grand Cross Breast Star by Johnson Auction which are topped by a(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 "S JOHNSON MILANO ROMA" on the reverse cartouche, marked 925 on 3 oclock arm, measuring 80. 45 mm (w) x 80. 55 mm (h), vertical pinback, intact enamels, extremely fine.