Vatican, Papal State. An Order of St. Silvester and of the Golden Spur, II. Class Commander, c.1950

(Ordine di San Silvestro e dello Sperone d’Oro). Instituted October 31st, 1841. Type II (1880-). c. 1950. Constructed of silver with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with rays emanating from the center of the award in the quadrants between the arms of the badge, the obverse with a central blue enameled medallion bearing the bust of St. Silvester in gilt, surrounded by a broad gilt ring inscribed with “Sanc. Silvester P.M.” in capitalized lettering, the reverse with a gilded central medallion bearing crossed keys topped by a Royal Crown, surrounded by a blue enameled band inscribed with “MDCCCXLI” on the reverse, on a fleur-de-lys and broad swivel loop for suspension from its full length period original neck ribbon, unmarked, measuring 55.0 mm (w) x 58.9 mm (l), weighing 46.55 grams, the upper tip of the 3 o’clock arm dented and the enamels damaged on both sides accordingly, in very fine condition.

Accompanied by its matching presentation case, constructed of a lightweight wooden core with a burgundy lightly textured faux leather (leatherette) exterior, the exterior of the lid embossed with crossed keys topped by a royal crown, the interior of the lid lined in off-white silk material embossed with the maker mark “Tanfani & Bertarelli, Rome” in gilded capital lettering, with an intact exterior paper hinge, intact fabric interior hinge cover, and functional exterior metal clasp, measuring 115 mm (w) x 158 mm (l), the case in near extremely fine condition.