Vatican. A Jubilee And Bene Merenti Medal Of Pope Pius Xii 1950

In bronzed zinc, obverse illustrating the left-facing bust of Pope Pius XII, surrounded by the Latin inscription "PIVS XII PONTIFEX MAXIMVS" (Pius XII Supreme Pontiff) and engraver marked "MIS / TRV / ZZI" (sculptor and medallist Aurelio Mistruzzi, 1880-1960), reverse illustrating the Holy Door of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, open to display a radiant chi-rho cross, surrounded by the Latin inscription "JVBILAEI AN MCML BENE MERENTI / ROMA" (Jubilee Year 1950 Well Merited / Rome), measuring 36.3 mm (w) x 41.5 mm (h) inclusive of its integral suspension, original ribbon, scattered bronzing wear evident on the reverse, better than very fine. In its hardshelled case of issue, Vatican coat-of-arms in gold-coloured ink on the lid, inscribed in Italian "Comitato Centrale Anno Santo 1950" (Central Committee Holy Year 1950) on the white satin inside lid. light soiled white felt recessed medal bed, weakened hinged area, case fair.

Footnote: The northernmost door of St. Peter’s Basilica is the "Holy Door", in bronze by Vico Consorti, 1950, and by tradition it is only opened for the most notable occasions, such as jubilee years.