Commander’s Cross of the Order, 2nd Type, White and Black Distinction. Neck Badge, 62x51 mm., GOLD, 41.69 g., as a purple-red enameled Maltese cross superimposed by a white enameled, 8-pointed star with chiseled borders and ball-finials, the whole flanked by elaborate ornamentation of toned silver, opalescent white enameled centre medallion with white border bearing the motto “FORTITUDO – CHARITAS – ABNEGATIO” in black, around a “Gothic” ornament, within a roughly quadrangular outer border with chiseled details, below a polychrome enameled allegory of the Charity, rising from green enameled laurel wreath, elaborately ornamented upper loop, with round suspension ring, the reverse, similar to the obverse, but without the allegoric image, opalescent-white enameled centre medallion within white enameled outer circlet, bearing inscription “BENEFICENCIA PUBLICA” and green enameled laurel wreath, polished ribbon-ring and original, combined silk, neck ribbon. A beautifully-made badge, rare to see in this quality from the 2nd quarter of 20th Century, excellent condition. I R!