St. George and the Dragon Repoussé Silver Medallion / Pendant
Coin/Bullion / Decorative Object (Pendant) · Unidentified European silver workshop, potentially Russian or Central European, lacking clear visible maker's marks in the provided image.
Pattern: St. George Slaying the Dragon traditional Christian iconography, frequently produced for medals, tokens, and religious amulets.
Type
Coin/Bullion / Decorative Object (Pendant)
Maker
Unidentified European silver workshop, potentially Russian or Central European, lacking clear visible maker's marks in the provided image.
Material
Appears to be silver or silver-gilt (vermeil) based on color tone and patination, likely meeting European standard silver (ranging from .800 to .925 purity), though base metal composition cannot be definitively ruled out without testing.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter approximately 2.5 to 3 cm (1 inch), consistent with a small commemorative or devotional medal; weight is unverified due to lack of scale and hand-held view.
Description
A small, round silver-toned metal medallion held in the palm of a hand, featuring a detailed high-relief central motif of St. George on horseback engaged with the dragon. The perimeter is defined by a distinct beaded or denticulated border framing an inscription band. A small hole punched near the top rim suggests it was adapted or designed to be worn as a pendant.
Key Features
Central high-relief equestrian figure of St. George, circular beaded border, descriptive rim lettering, and a top suspension perforation.
Material & Composition
Appears to be silver or silver-gilt (vermeil) based on color tone and patination, likely meeting European standard silver (ranging from .800 to .925 purity), though base metal composition cannot be definitively ruled out without testing.
Finish & Decoration
Aged patinated finish with high-relief repoussé or stamped central figural motif showing Saint George on horseback slaying a dragon, encircled by a raised beaded border and inscribed text.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Not clearly visible in the photograph, though a small suspension hole is drilled near the top edge which may have displaced or omitted traditional hallmark placement areas.
Construction Details
Likely die-struck or hand-chased relief medallion with a later or integrated suspension loop hole punched near the rim.
Functional Features
Features a drilled perforation at the top rim indicating usage as a pendant, amulet, or wearable devotional token.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; features a suspension hole for a cord, chain, or jump ring.
Craftsmanship Details
Good definition in the central repoussé or stamped relief, with clear detailing on the horse, rider, and border elements typical of mid-tier devotional minting or silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Natural dark sulfide tarnish in recessed areas and wear patterns on high points suggest genuine age, though formal authentication requires acid testing, XRF analysis, and hallmark verification.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely European origin, following long-standing traditions of religious and commemorative medals popular throughout Russia, Great Britain, and Central Europe.
Era & Period
Stylistically reminiscent of 19th-century Revivalism or traditional European talismanic medals, though exact period requires physical inspection of wear and metal characteristics.
Age Estimate
Circa late 19th to mid-20th century, based on the style of the relief work and patination, though precise dating requires hallmark analysis.
Cultural Significance
Represents deeply rooted Christian iconography symbolizing the triumph of good over evil, widely utilized across various European cultures in wearable devotional art.
Condition Notes
Moderate surface tarnish and dark patina indicating age and handling; visible wear to the high points of the relief; presence of a drilled suspension hole at the rim.
Value Estimate
Modest collector value depending primarily on silver weight, exact metal purity, and historical provenance, typically ranging from $50 to $250 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid harsh chemical dips if maintaining the antique patina, and store in a dry, anti-tarnish environment.
Similar Pieces
Traditional Russian silver ruble commemorative tokens, British George and the Dragon sovereigns or crown medals, and various European religious amulets.
Interesting Facts
St. George is a widely revered warrior saint in Christian tradition, and medals depicting his defeat of the dragon have historically been carried as protective talismans by travelers and soldiers.