WW2 Canadian The Italy Star Full Size Medal

The Italy Star is a British Commonwealth campaign medal instituted in May 1945 to recognize service during the Italian Campaign of the Second World War. This full-size medal, as issued to Canadian forces, is a six-pointed star made of yellow copper zinc alloy. The obverse bears the Royal Cipher “GRVI” at the center, surmounted by a crown with “THE ITALY STAR” inscribed around the circumference. The accompanying ribbon features three equal stripes of red, white, and green, symbolizing the colors of the Italian flag. Eligibility for the Italy Star required operational service in Italy, Sicily, or adjacent territories and waters between 11 June 1943 and 8 May 1945. Personnel from all services, including the Canadian Army, Navy, and Air Force, were eligible, provided they met the qualifying criteria for theatre participation. The Italy Star remains a significant emblem of the contributions made by Canadian and other Commonwealth forces in the Mediterranean theater during World War II.