Italy, Republic. An Order of Military Merit of the Italian Republic, III Class Commander, c.1965

(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana, Commentadore). Instituted March 3rd, 1951. Type I. (c. 1960’s issue). Constructed of silver gilt, consisting of a white enameled Greek cross with ball finals, and with eagles in the quadrants between the arms of the cross, both sides with a gilded five-pointed star applied to the center, suspended from a hollow crown and large broad loop suspension from a period original neck ribbon, unmarked, marked “800” for silver content and 

“958 MI"(silversmith registration number and made in Milan), measuring 55.3 mm (w) x 74.1 mm (l), weighing 41.18 grams, in better than very fine condition. 

Footnote: The Order of Merit of the Italian Republic was founded as the senior order of knighthood by the second President of the Italian Republic, Luigi Einaudi in 1951. The highest ranking honour of the Republic, it is awarded for "merit acquired by the nation" in the fields of literature, the arts, economy, public service, and social, philanthropic and humanitarian activities and for long and conspicuous service in civilian and military careers. The post-nominal letters for the order are OMRI. The order effectively replaced national orders such as the Civil Order of Savoy (1831), the Order of the Crown of Italy (1868), the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus (1572) and the Supreme Order of the Most Holy Annunciation (1362). It is awarded in five grades: Grand Cross, Grand Officer, Commander, Officer and Knight.