Miraculous Medal 'Promoter' Sterling Silver Religious Pendant
Jewelry (Pendant/Medal) · Unknown American or European Religious Goods manufacturer; frequently produced by companies like Creed, McVan, or Chapel.
Pattern: Miraculous Medal (Medaille Miraculeuse), featuring the Virgin Mary with 'Promoter' designation.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant/Medal)
Maker
Unknown American or European Religious Goods manufacturer; frequently produced by companies like Creed, McVan, or Chapel.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on visual oxidation and standard production for this form; jump ring is likely also silver.
Dimensions
Approximately 25mm to 30mm (1 inch) in height; estimated weight between 2.5 and 4.0 grams.
Description
An oval sterling silver devotional medal depicting ‘Our Lady of Graces.’ The central figure is shown with rays of light (graces) emanating from her hands. The unique ‘PROMOTER’ banner suggests this was given to a specific member of a sodality or religious association tasked with spreading the devotion.
Key Features
The 'PROMOTER' inscription at the base; the high-relief molding; the inclusion of traditional Marian iconography (serpent, globe, sun-rays).
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) based on visual oxidation and standard production for this form; jump ring is likely also silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized antique finish with die-struck relief; features the Virgin Mary standing on a globe, crushing a serpent, surrounded by the Latin prayer and a decorative 'Promoter' banner.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'STERLING' on the reverse; may include a small maker's mark (e.g., an 'M' in a shield or the word 'CREED').
Construction Details
Die-struck from a metal sheet using a high-pressure press to create the detailed relief; jump ring is soldered for security.
Functional Features
Single integral loop at the top with a secondary jump ring for attachment to a necklace or rosary.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Pendant form.
Craftsmanship Details
Precision die-work with clean lettering and anatomical detail on the figure; edges are smooth and well-finished.
Authentication Indicators
The characteristic grey-black oxidation in the recessed areas is typical of silver sulfide; the crispness of the die-strike indicates a professional silver workshop rather than a cast lead imitation.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or Italy; these centers dominate the production of high-quality Catholic devotional silver.
Era & Period
Modern / Mid-20th Century (Post-1950); design follows the traditional 1830 apparition aesthetic.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980, based on the font style of the 'Promoter' text and the level of surface wear.
Cultural Significance
A primary artifact of Roman Catholic devotional life, representing the 'Miraculous Medal' movement which claims to grant special graces to those who wear it.
Condition Notes
Very Good; displays moderate tarnish (patina) consistent with age, which highlights the relief. Minimal surface abrasion on the high points of the figure.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $45.00 USD, depending on the specific maker's mark and the weight of the silver.
Care & Maintenance
Polish gently with the provided Connoisseurs Silver Jewelry cloth; avoid liquid dips which can strip the intentional 'antique' oxidation from the deep carvings.
Similar Pieces
Standard Miraculous Medals without the 'Promoter' text; base-metal variants; 'Member' or 'Officer' variant sodality medals.
Interesting Facts
The Miraculous Medal design originated from Saint Catherine Labouré's vision in Paris in 1830. The 'Promoter' version was often awarded to laypeople who distributed a certain number of medals to others.