St. Christopher Pendant / Religious Medal
Jewelry (Pendant / Religious Medal) · Unknown manufacturer. Most examples of this type are mass-produced by commercial religious goods suppliers or local silversmiths specializing in devotional items.
Pattern: Standard iconography of St. Christopher carrying the Christ Child across a river.
Type
Jewelry (Pendant / Religious Medal)
Maker
Unknown manufacturer. Most examples of this type are mass-produced by commercial religious goods suppliers or local silversmiths specializing in devotional items.
Material
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or silver-plated base metal (nickel or brass). The Presence of green verdigris on the attachment point suggests a copper-based alloy is present, either as a base metal or in the silver alloy solder.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 15mm-20mm (small/dime size). Weight is likely between 1.5 to 3.0 grams.
Description
A circular religious medal depicting Saint Christopher. The saint is shown in a traditional pose, leaning on a staff while carrying the Christ Child on his shoulders. Such medals are often given as gifts to travelers or drivers to provide protection and safe passage.
Key Features
Standard iconography of the 'Christ-Bearer'; small circular form; die-struck manufacturing; visible wear on the suspension loop.
Material & Composition
Likely Sterling Silver (.925) or silver-plated base metal (nickel or brass). The Presence of green verdigris on the attachment point suggests a copper-based alloy is present, either as a base metal or in the silver alloy solder.
Finish & Decoration
Die-struck relief with a matte or antiqued finish. The image shows a classic bas-relief depiction of the saint with a staff, typically surrounded by the text 'Saint Christopher Protect Us' (though the text is obscured by blur).
Hallmarks & Stamps
None clearly visible in the image. Usually located on the reverse or the bale, marks would typically include 'STERLING', '925', or a maker's hallmark.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a metal sheet. The hole at the top indicates it was intended to be hung from a jump ring or bale for use on a necklace or bracelet.
Functional Features
Single suspension hole for attachment to jewelry. It serves as a devotional or protective talisman.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a pendant. The attachment point shows some wear and oxidation.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial quality. The image was produced using a hardened steel die to stamp the pattern into the metal, a process designed for high-volume production rather than unique hand-wrought art.
Authentication Indicators
The circular shape and stamped relief are consistent with standard religious medals. Lack of visible hallmarks in this view makes material confirmation (Sterling vs. Plate) impossible without a physical test or seeing the back.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA, Italy, or Mexico. Italy is known for high-quality struck religious medals, while Mexico is a major source of sterling silver souvenirs.
Era & Period
Modern era; likely mid-to-late 20th century. This style became particularly popular for travelers and soldiers from the 1940s through the 1970s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980. The wear on the hole and the style of the struck image are consistent with mid-century mass production.
Cultural Significance
A widespread symbol of faith and protection in Catholic and Christian traditions, often kept in cars, worn by travelers, or carried by members of the military.
Condition Notes
Fair. Significant blur in the photo prevents a detailed surface assessment, but visible green corrosion (verdigris) near the attachment point indicates oxidation of copper. The surface appears somewhat worn from friction.
Value Estimate
$5 - $15 USD if base metal/plated; $20 - $45 USD if sterling silver, depending on weight and maker.
Care & Maintenance
Remove verdigris with a soft brush and mild soapy water. Use a silver polishing cloth if the item is sterling. Store in a dry place to prevent further corrosion of the base metal components.
Similar Pieces
Miraculous Medals (Mary), St. Michael medals (Police/Military), and enameled Surfer Medals. Italian-made 800 silver medals are common alternatives.
Interesting Facts
St. Christopher is the patron saint of travelers. During the 1960s, 'Saint Christopher surf medals' became a major fashion trend among surfers in California and Australia, often featuring colorful enamel.