Saint Benedict Medal (Vermeil Sterling Silver)
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion) · Typically manufactured by religious goods workshops or specialized Catholic medalists like Creed, Chapel, or Italian silversmiths. This specific piece lacks a visible front-facing maker's mark but follows the 'Jubilee' design standard.
Pattern: Saint Benedict Jubilee Medal (Constantinopolitana), characterized by the saint holding a cross and his Rule.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medallion)
Maker
Typically manufactured by religious goods workshops or specialized Catholic medalists like Creed, Chapel, or Italian silversmiths. This specific piece lacks a visible front-facing maker's mark but follows the 'Jubilee' design standard.
Material
Vermeil (Gold-plated Sterling Silver). The base is .925 silver with a thin gold electroplate. Some variants are made of bronze or base metal, but the luster suggests a silver core.
Dimensions
Estimated 18mm to 25mm in diameter (standard medium size). Weight approximately 3-6 grams including the bale.
Description
A classic Saint Benedict Jubilee Medal featuring the saint in center relief. He holds a cross in his right hand and the Rule of Benedict in his left. To his sides are the broken cup (poisoned wine) and the raven with poisoned bread. The Latin inscription 'Eivs in obitv nro prae sentia mivniamvr' (May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death) surrounds the image.
Key Features
Bicolor vermeil finish, Latin abbreviation 'CRUX S. PATRIS BENEDICTI', and the iconographic elements of the raven and chalice.
Material & Composition
Vermeil (Gold-plated Sterling Silver). The base is .925 silver with a thin gold electroplate. Some variants are made of bronze or base metal, but the luster suggests a silver core.
Finish & Decoration
Bicolor finish with gold-plated central figure and silver-toned border. Features relief casting, stippled background for texture, and circumscribed Latin text. Style is Ecclesiastical/Traditional Catholic.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped '925' or 'Sterling' on the reverse or the bale (jump ring). If Italian, a lozenge mark with a number and province abbreviation may be present. Marks are not clearly visible in the photo.
Construction Details
Die-struck or investment cast. The jump ring is a separate wire loop, likely soldered closed for security. Bicolor effect achieved through selective plating or masking.
Functional Features
Includes a top loop (bale) for suspension on a neck chain or rosary. Designed as an 'apotropaic' object (to ward off evil).
Handle & Grip Details
Round bail attachment at the top, showing some wear and oxidation where it contacts the chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial jewelry quality. Die-striking provides the sharp lettering seen in the border, while the gold finish adds a liturgical aesthetic.
Authentication Indicators
Alignment of the Latin text and traditional iconography. Authentic silver vermeil will show '925' stamps; base metal versions usually lack these.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Italy or the United States (Rhode Island/Massachusetts region), which are hubs for Catholic metalwork.
Era & Period
Modern reproduction of a 19th-century design (The 1880 Jubilee Medal). Traditional Religious Art style.
Age Estimate
Likely late 20th century to contemporary (c. 1980–present), based on the crispness of the casting and the nature of the gold plating.
Cultural Significance
Deeply significant in Catholic folk piety as a sacramental used for spiritual protection and blessing of homes.
Condition Notes
Good condition. There is visible wear on the gold plating (thinning) on the raised relief of the saint's robes, revealing the silver beneath. Light tarnish on the jump ring.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $65.00 USD depending on the weight of the silver and the thickness of the gold plating.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid silver dips as they will strip the thin gold plating (vermeil). Store in a dry place to prevent 'tarnish bleed' through the gold layer.
Similar Pieces
Miraculous Medal (Virgin Mary), Saint Christopher medals, or solid 14k gold versions which would lack the silver oxidation seen here.
Interesting Facts
The Saint Benedict medal is one of the only medals in the Catholic Church that includes a specific formula for exorcism on its reverse side.