Knight’s Cross of the Order, Military Class in GOLD, 63x40 mm, red enameled Maltese cross with ball-finials; blue enameled centre medallion with raised portrait of the saint in gold, within golden outer circlet bearing the inscription in raised lettering; the reverse, with non-enameled arms, engraved with a pattern of lozenges (as usual on the earliest badges) and blue enameled centre medallion bearing the Order’s motto in gold lettering, within golden outer circlet bearing the date of the Order’s Institution (the first year of Pope Gregory XVI’s rule); engraved upper loop and beautifully executed, hollow-made trophy in gold, the reverse, with an oval hole on the backplate; round suspension ring and original ribbon; in the original, red morocco case with pale blue velvet, fitted inner compartment; the lid, with gold embossed arms of Pope Pius IX. A highly attractive, decoration, dating from the 1st half of 19th Century, rare when of the Military Class; excellent condition. I RR!