Italy, Kingdom. A Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order Of Saint John Of Jerusalem, Commander Auction Archive "Schiffbauhalle" (Ship Construction Hall)

"Schiffbauhalle" (Ship Construction Hall)

obverse centre presenting the French Imperial Eagle with surround inscribed HONNEUR ET PATRIE

Gablonz” on the reverse

laurel wreath integral loop

50mm (h – inclusive of integral suspension)

Italy, Kingdom. A Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order Of Saint John Of Jerusalem, Commander Auction Archive "Schiffbauhalle" (Ship Construction Hall)Cross of Merit. In silver gilt with red and white enamels, unmarked, measuring 52. 5 mm (w) x 88. 5 mm (h) inclusive of its crown and integral ring suspension, on its original full length neck ribbon, intact enamels, extremely fine. Footnote: The Order, often popularly referred to as the "Knights of Malta", was in existence certainly as long ago as the early years of the 12th Century and is still extant today. Originally based in Jerusalem, the Order