Italy, Republic. An Order of Military Merit of the Italian Republic, III Class Commander, c.1965 visually-hidden in silvered tombac and blue

in silvered tombac and blue and white enamels

With steel clip and replaced suspension ring

the medals demonstrate consistent oxidation and loss of finish reflecting age and wear

droptail-style Luftwaffe eagle clutching a mobile swastika

Italy, Republic. An Order of Military Merit of the Italian Republic, III Class Commander, c.1965 visually-hidden in silvered tombac and blue(Ordine al Merito della Repubblica Italiana, Commentadore). Instituted March 3rd, 1951. Type I. (c. 1960s 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