This set consists of two decorations from the Order of the Roman Eagle (Ordine dell’Aquila Romana), established during the Kingdom of Italy (1942-1944) under Fascist rule.
1. Order of the Roman Eagle - Commander Class with Swords (III Class)
Dimensions: 55.18 x 51.22 mm
Design:
White enamel Maltese cross, with a central blue enamel medallion.
In the center: A crowned golden eagle clutching a Savoy cross, symbolizing the Kingdom of Italy.
Two crossed swords behind the cross, indicating that this award was issued for military merit.
Surrounded by a green enamel laurel wreath, a symbol of victory and honor.
Comes with an original neck ribbon.
Purpose:
Awarded to senior military officers and high-ranking civilians who provided significant service to the Italian state.
2. Order of the Roman Eagle - Officer's Cross
Dimensions: 41.13 x 38.28 mm
Design:
Similar to the Commander’s Cross, but without swords.
White enamel Maltese cross with a crowned golden eagle in the center.
Encircled by a green enamel laurel wreath.
Comes with its original ribbon.
Purpose:
Awarded to officers and mid-level state officials for service to the Kingdom of Italy.
Condition Report:
Both medals retain their original ribbons.
The enamels remain mostly intact, but please refer to the pictures for any chipping or wear.
Swords are present on the Commander Class, confirming its status as a military award.
Some patina and wear consistent with age.
Historical Background:
The Order of the Roman Eagle was established by Benito Mussolini in 1942 to reward military personnel and civilians for loyalty to Fascist Italy.
Following the fall of Mussolini in 1943, the award was discontinued and became obsolete after the fall of the Italian Social Republic in 1945.
Collectibility & Rarity:
This set of two medals, particularly the Commander Class with Swords, is highly collectible, especially among enthusiasts of Italian WWII-era orders.
The Officer’s Cross is relatively common, but the Commander with Swords is rarer.