San Marino - Order of Saint Agatha, Commander (Circa 1940) (Ordine di Sant'Agata, Commendatore)
The Order of Saint Agatha (Ordine di Sant’Agata) is one of San Marino’s highest honors, awarded to individuals who have provided distinguished service to the Republic, culture, or humanity. Named after Saint Agatha, the patroness of San Marino, this prestigious order reflects the nation’s deep historical and cultural heritage.
This Commander Class (circa 1940) badge is a historically significant and well-crafted decoration, reflecting San Marino’s values of independence and recognition of merit.
Specifications
Institution: Established in 1923 by the Republic of San Marino.
Period: Circa 1940 (pre-World War II issue).
Dimensions: 60.72 mm (height) x 54.67 mm (width) (typical for a Commander badge).
Material: Silver-gilt with white and green enamel details.
Ribbon:
Original neck ribbon included, adding authenticity.
Tying ends cut (please refer to pictures for condition).
Design Features
Obverse (Front)
Maltese cross with white enamel arms, symbolizing chivalry and virtue.
Encircled by a green enameled wreath, representing honor and loyalty.
Central medallion features a detailed depiction of Saint Agatha, crafted with precision.
Surrounding inscription in gold lettering:
"SANT. AGATHA PROTETTRICE" (Saint Agatha, Protectress).
Reverse (Back)
Central inscription in gilt letters on a white enamel ring:
"BENE MERENTI" (Well Deserving), affirming the recipient’s merit.
Center features the coat of arms of San Marino, symbolizing national sovereignty and independence.
Suspension & Ribbon
Commander Class is worn around the neck, suspended by a neck ribbon.
Original ribbon is included, but damaged or cut at the tying ends (affects wearability but retains historical authenticity).
Historical Context
Creation & Purpose
Established in 1923, the Order of Saint Agatha is awarded for:
Exceptional service to the Republic of San Marino.
Significant contributions to culture, diplomacy, or humanitarian efforts.
Recognition of foreign dignitaries and distinguished individuals.
Hierarchy of the Order
The Order of Saint Agatha consists of five classes:
Grand Cross (Gran Croce) – Highest rank, worn with a sash and breast star.
Grand Officer (Grande Ufficiale) – Worn with a breast star and neck ribbon.
Commander (Commendatore) – Worn on a neck ribbon (this piece).
Officer (Ufficiale) – Worn on a chest ribbon with rosette.
Knight (Cavaliere) – Entry-level distinction, worn on a chest ribbon.
San Marino’s Diplomatic & Cultural Significance
San Marino, the world’s oldest republic, maintains a long tradition of honoring individuals who strengthen its cultural, humanitarian, and diplomatic ties.
This order continues to be awarded today, making early issues like this 1940s piece particularly valuable.
This San Marino - Order of Saint Agatha, Commander (circa 1940) is a historically significant and highly collectible decoration, representing San Marino’s tradition of honoring distinguished service.
Despite ribbon damage, its intact enamel, fine silver-gilt craftsmanship, and pre-WWII issuance make it a valuable addition to collections of European orders and state decorations.
For authentication and valuation, please refer to the provided pictures to assess enamel condition and ribbon integrity.