Vatican, Papal State. An Order of St.Gregory, Commander, by Tanfani & Bertarelli

(Ordine di San Gregorio Magno). Instituted September 1 1831. A finely manufactured badge in silver gilt, presenting a red enamelled Maltese Cross with ball finials and a hand etched frame, with the central medallion featuring a blue enamelled field with a superimposed bust of St. Gregory, surrounded in a ring inscribed S GREGORTUS MAGNUS, the reverse features the inscription PRO DEO ET PRINCIPE (For God and Ruler) on a blue enamelled field, with inscription GREGORIUS XVI. P. M. ANNOI., also featuring hand etched arms, the badge is surmounted by a green enamelled wreath, measures 57.7 mm (w) x 86.2 mm (h – inclusive of surmounting wreath), 40.5 grams, unmarked, worn on a period neck ribbon, very fine.

Contained in original case of issue, a red leatherette exterior, interior in silk and velvet, maker marked TANFANI & BERTARELLI on the lid, measures 135 mm (w) x 160 mm (h) 27 mm (d), functional hinge and clasp, light wear and scuffing to edges, remains very fine.