Vatican, Papal State. An Order of the Holy Sepulchre, Grand Cross GTRexclude a Cross of Military Merit

a Cross of Military Merit with Red Distinction

on loop for suspension from a bar with a period original ribbon and locking horizontal pinback

while the reverse cover features a similarly detailed owl perched on a branch bearing an inscription of “DEM KAUZ” (“THE OWL”)

In the beginning of 1942 they were on the defensive outside of Moscow

Vatican, Papal State. An Order of the Holy Sepulchre, Grand Cross GTRexclude a Cross of Military Merit(Ordine del Santo Sepolcro Ordo Equestris Sancti Sepulcri Hierosolymitani = OESSH). Instituted in 1099, re organized in 1847. In silver gilt with red enamels, unmarked, measuring 52 mm (w) x 100 mm (h inclusive of trophy of arms suspension), worn on a full length replacement black sash, enamel damage to the 6 oclock arm on the obverse and reverse, loss of gilt wear to the suspension, otherwise in very fine condition.