St. Peregrine Sterling Silver Devotional Medal
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medal) · Unknown manufacturer, likely an Italian or American devotional goods maker such as McVan Inc., Bliss Manufacturing, or a specialty workshop in Loreto, Italy.
Pattern: Saint Peregrine Laziosi iconography; standard Catholic devotional pattern.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medal)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer, likely an Italian or American devotional goods maker such as McVan Inc., Bliss Manufacturing, or a specialty workshop in Loreto, Italy.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Likely die-struck from a solid sheet of sterling silver.
Dimensions
Approximately 1 inch (25mm) in height and 0.6 inches (15mm) in width. Estimated weight: 2.5–4.0 grams.
Description
An oval sterling silver devotional medal depicting St. Peregrine Laziosi, the patron saint of those suffering from cancer and other incurable diseases. The medal shows the saint kneeling in prayer before a crucifix, a reference to his miraculous healing. The high-polish border contrasts with the textured, antiqued interior to provide depth to the Saint's image.
Key Features
Specific iconography of the kneeling saint and the cross; 'Sterling' mark indicating precious metal content; oval 'miraculous' shape common in Catholic tradition.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Likely die-struck from a solid sheet of sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized satin finish to highlight the bas-relief details. Features an embossed figure of St. Peregrine kneeling before a cross, displaying his afflicted leg.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped 'STERLING' or '925' on the reverse side or on the jump ring bail. May include a small maker's mark or 'ITALY' depending on its precise origin.
Construction Details
Die-struck/stamped metal with a soldered jump ring (bail) for attachment to a chain.
Functional Features
Single integrated loop with a secondary jump ring for suspension from a necklace or rosary.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a pendant medal.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-struck using a high-pressure die. The relief is consistent and professionally finished with a dark patina to enhance the figure's readability.
Authentication Indicators
Sharpness of the die-struck image suggests a professional mint; the 'Sterling' stamp (if present) and the specific weight typical of silver rather than base-metal alloys.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely United States or Italy. These represent the global centers for sterling silver religious medal manufacturing.
Era & Period
Contemporary/Late 20th Century Devotional. Based on the crispness of the stamping and modern jump ring, it reflects mid-to-late 20th-century religious art styles.
Age Estimate
Circa 1970–Present. The design is a classic motif that has remained in production for decades.
Cultural Significance
Such medals are widely used in the Catholic faith as sacramentals—outward signs of inner faith. They are frequently gifted to individuals undergoing medical treatment.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The relief remains sharp; minimal tarnish is visible. Structural integrity of the bail is sound. Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$25.00 - $45.00 USD, depending on weight and if it includes a sterling silver chain.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft silver polishing cloth; avoid chemical dips that may remove the intentional oxidation in the recessed areas. Store in a dry place.
Similar Pieces
Pewter or silver-plated versions are common (will feel lighter and lack '925' hallmark); 14k gold versions exist for higher-end jewelry markets.
Interesting Facts
St. Peregrine is often called the 'Wonder Worker.' He was a member of the Servite Order in the 13th century and was cured of a cancerous leg tumor the night before surgery after praying before a crucifix.