Italy Order of Merit of the Italian Republic Collar 1951

Gold 89,60g.; Enameled; in original box; original name: Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana; 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.