Vatican, Papal State. An Order Of The Holy Sepulcher Of Jerusalem, Grand Cross Star By Alberti & C. Milano, C.1945

(Ordo Equestris Sancti Sepulcri Hierosolymitani). Instituted 1847. Type II. In silver, an eight armed star with clusters of five faceted rays, the obverse medallion features a red enamelled cross with smaller crosses in each quadrant on a white enamelled field, surrounded by a dark green enamelled wreath and heavily gilded faceted ring, the reverse with a single pin assembly and dual stays, the cartouche presents the makers mark ALBERTI & C MILANO, marked 800 and 25 mark, measures 89.4mm (w) x 89.4mm (h), weighs 75.4 grams, heavy silver on rays, enamels intact, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (Latin: Ordo Equestris Sancti Sepulcri Hierosolymitani, OESSH), also called the Order of the Holy Sepulchre or Knights of the Holy Sepulchre, is a Roman Catholic order of knighthood under the protection of the Holy See. The Pope is sovereign of the Order. Founded as Milites Sancti Sepulcri attached to the Augustinian Canons Regular of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, recognized in 1113 by Papal bull of Pope Paschal II and of Pope Calistus II in 1122. It traces its roots to circa 1099 under the Frankish Duke Godfrey of Bouillon, Advocatus Sancti Sepulchri, "Defender of the Holy Sepulchre", one of the leaders of the First Crusade and first ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. It is an internationally recognized order of knighthood.