In solid bronze, this is a relatively rare unofficial Axis award (nearly 31mm diameter), which the German army received permission to wear, award certificates being known for this medal signed by local commanders. As of 29.3.44, this award was no longer given or worn as a result of the Italian surrender.
The maker's name (Lorioli, Milano) appears in tiny raised letters just inside the raised edge on the front (crocodile side), with the designer's name (De Marchis - just legible with a magnifying glass) under the crocodile's head.
Its condition is only fair, on account of the considerable wear and partial distortion at the suspension of the medal. However, the inscription in Italian and German around the rim is present and reasonably legible, though worn in places. The ribbon would have been 25 mm wide, bearing the Italian and German national colours (black/white/red/white/green).
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[Militaria : Medals : Italian : 20th Century]
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