A collection of four significant Italian medals, each with historical and collectible value.
1. Medal for Civil Valor (1900–1943, 3rd Type)
Country: Kingdom of Italy
Period: 1900–1943 (3rd Type)
Diameter: 35.28 mm
Material: Silver
Awarded For: Acts of civilian heroism, courage, and self-sacrifice in the service of others.
Collectible Significance
Rare 3rd Type, issued before the abolition of the monarchy (1946).
Highly sought after by collectors of Italian royal medals.
2. Silver Medal for Military Valor
Country: Kingdom of Italy
Diameter: 34.75 mm
Material: Silver
Awarded For: Exceptional acts of military bravery in combat.
Collectible Significance
One of Italy’s highest military awards, comparable to the British Military Cross or French Croix de Guerre.
WWI and WWII versions are especially valuable.
3. 1908 Messina Earthquake Medal (Original, Silver Issue)
Country: Kingdom of Italy
Date: 1908
Diameter: 31.57 mm
Material: Silver
Awarded For: Heroic rescue and relief efforts following the 1908 Messina earthquake.
Historical Context & Collectible Significance
The Messina earthquake of December 28, 1908, was one of the deadliest in European history, killing over 100,000 people.
This medal was awarded to military personnel, firefighters, and civilians who participated in rescue and relief efforts.
Rare in silver, as many were produced in bronze.
4. Kingdom of Italy - Italian Navy Medal for Valor ("Al Valore di Marina")
Country: Kingdom of Italy
Diameter: 33.41 mm
Material: Silver
Awarded For: Acts of bravery in naval operations.
Collectible Significance
Awarded exclusively to sailors and naval officers, making it rarer than the standard military valor medals.
Particularly valuable if connected to WWI or WWII naval engagements.
Conclusion
This lot of four Italian medals represents a diverse range of awards from the Kingdom of Italy, covering civil bravery, military valor, disaster relief, and naval heroism. Each medal holds historical significance and collectible value, particularly in silver issues.