Vatican, Papal State. An Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Grand Officer, c. 1955

(Ordine equestre del Santo Sepolcro di Gerusalemme). Instituted circa 1099. Type II. (1950 issue). A cased Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, Type II, Grand Officer set consisting of:

1. A breast star, consisting of an eight-pointed silver star with multiple quills between the arms of the star, the obverse centerpiece bears the Jerusalem Cross in red enamels on a white circular background, surrounded by a green enameled laurel wreath tied together at the base by a bright red enameled bow, surrounded by a notched silver gilt bezel, the reverse plain, with a block hinge, a pointed vertical pinback, and a broad wire catch, unmarked, measuring 86.4 mm (w) x 87.3 mm (l), weighing 87.06 grams, fine enameled details with pleasant supple patina, in extremely fine condition. 

2. A neck badge, constructed of silver gilt and fine quality red enamels, consisting of a double-sided red enameled Jerusalem cross with a gilt trophy of arms suspension from its period original neck ribbon, measuring 51.5 mm (w) x 63.3 mm (l) not including its suspension device, weighing 55.61 grams inclusive of its ribbon, in better than extremely fine condition. 

3. Accompanied by a presentation case for the awards, constructed of a lightweight wooden core, with a red faux leather exterior, the exterior of the lid embossed with a Jerusalem Cross in gilt, the interior of the lid lined with off-white silk, embossed with “Tanfani & Bertarelli, Oggetti Sacri, Roma” 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 125 mm (w) x 254 mm (l), in extremely fine condition. 

Footnote: The Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem is believed to have been founded by Godrey of Bouillon in 1099, however, the Order was not brought under the protection of the Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem until 1847, and it wasn’t even granted legal canonical status until 1868, when it was placed under papal control by Pope Pius IX. Throughout most of its history this Order has been awarded to Catholics in recognition of their lifelong dedication and services to the Church, and the aid they have rendered to Jerusalem, monetary or philanthropic. It continues to be awarded as a modern Order, and may be conferred upon moral and charitable Christians who have worked to protect Jerusalem, are active members of the Catholic Church, and are loyal to the Pope.