Italy Unknown 'Al Merito' Medal

[Linasl]

Greetings All.

I just purchased a curios Italian (?) medal with the WWI InterAlly ribbon and "Al Merito" on the medallion, a red cross, and an Italian combat helmet - please see the photos.

Is this just a fantasy piece? Can you at least identify what the medal is for by looking at the front and back of the medallion?

Any help you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you. Linas

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_02_2013/post-3713-0-77267700-1361297541.jpghttp://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_02_2013/post-3713-0-82638500-1361297551.jpg

[claudio2574]

Never seen. I'm afraid it's not genuine.

There is a very good book about the (many) cross-shaped Italian medals, no trace of this one.

The book is:

Brambilla-Fossati

Medaglie a croce FFAA 1900-1989

Italian cross medals

[Linasl]

Thank Claudio for taking the time to do the research.

Take care. Linas

[Kev in Deva]

At least you got a nice piece of Italian Victory Medal ribbon.

Hopefully it did not cost you too much.

Kevin in Deva.