Vintage religious medal metal Pope profile relief old Catholic

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique Catholic religious medal features a relief profile portrait of a pope, identifiable by his tiara and pontifical vestments. The piece is round with an integrated loop for hanging, typical of medals worn as pendants or displayed. The surface has a golden patina, marked by visible signs of oxidation and wear, attesting to its age and authenticity. The partially legible inscription along the edge includes the word "PONTIFEX", indicating a definite pontifical origin.

The portrait's relief is finely crafted, offering a textured and realistic rendering of the facial features and liturgical attire. Details of the hair, collar, and vestment ornaments are still discernible despite the marks of time. The overall appearance of the medal strongly evokes European religious production from the early to mid-20th century, with a sober and solemn aesthetic characteristic of devotional objects from that period.

The visible side shows a golden metallic coloration with a slightly matte effect, probably linked to the wear of the original gilding or a natural patina developed over time. There is no superfluous decoration; the medal focuses on the portrait and inscription, which is characteristic of pontifical medals given during pilgrimages or religious ceremonies.

The integrated, robust, and rounded bail is directly molded into the mass, reinforcing the solidity of the entire piece. The edge and back are not visible in the photo; only the obverse is described here. The object rests on an antique box, highlighting its sacred character and the tradition of preserving this type of medal in cases or keepsake boxes.

Condition

Used item, sold as is. Presence of wear marks, irregular patina, small traces of oxidation, and a slightly tarnished surface, with no major chips visible on the presented face.

Did you know? Pontifical medals were frequently distributed during audiences or major religious events at the Vatican, especially from the late 19th century onwards. They served as blessed souvenirs and were often worn as pendants, retaining significant spiritual and memorial value for the faithful.

AFW Reassurance

Careful packaging, reinforced protection, and fast shipping from France by a professional seller specializing in antique religious items.

Keywords: religious medal, Catholic pendant, pope medal, antique medal, pontifical medal, gilded metal medal, religious medallion, papal medal, religious pendant, Vatican souvenir, hanging medal, antique religious jewelry