Vatican, Papal State. A Pontifical Equestrian Order of Saint Sylvester Pope & Martyer, Commander Cross

(Ordine di San Silvestro Papa). Instituted October 31st, 1841. Constructed of gilded silver with blue and white enamels, suspended from a fixed loop and broad swivel ring from its period original neck ribbon, consisting of a Maltese Cross with white enameled arms, and with a strand of rays emanating from the centre in the quadrants between the arms of the cross, the obverse with a central blue enameled medallion bearing a gilt portrayal of Saint Sylvester, surrounded by a broad gilt ring inscribed with “Sanctus Sylvester” in capital lettering, the reverse with a central medallion bearing the coat of arms of the Vatican, surrounded by the date “1841” in roman numerals withing a blue ring of enamels, unmarked, measuring 61.1 mm (w) x 63.9 mm (l), weighing 40.61 grams, accompanied by a miniature of the award constructed of silver gilt and suspended by a miniature version of the matching ribbon, measuring 14.1 mm (w) x 17.8 mm (l), in overall extremely fine condition. 

Accompanied by a presentation case for the award, constructed of a lightweight wooden core, with a red faux leather exterior, the exterior of the lid embossed with a Vatican Seal embossed in gilt, the interior of the lid lined with off-white silk, embossed with “Albertis & G, Milano” in gilt lettering, with a space for the placement of the ribbon on the base of the case, with a recessed medal bed for the award, functional exterior metal hinge with intact interior fabric hinge cover, measuring 130 mm (w) x 160 mm (l), in extremely fine condition.