Vintage French Catholic St. Raphael Archangel Patron of Travelers Medal
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant) · Unknown French silversmith/medallist. Likely an atelier specializing in devotional religious items for the tourist or pilgrimage trade.
Pattern: Traditional Hagiographic Saint Medal; Raphael the Archangel standing with staff and gourds.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant)
Maker
Unknown French silversmith/medallist. Likely an atelier specializing in devotional religious items for the tourist or pilgrimage trade.
Material
French Silver (.800 min purity per hallmarks). High silver content with copper alloy for durability.
Dimensions
Standard devotional size, approx. 14mm-18mm in diameter; estimated weight 1.5 - 3.0 grams.
Description
A classic French religious medal depicting St. Raphael the Archangel. He is shown as the traveler's guide, carrying a staff and fish, which refers to the Book of Tobit. These medals were often carried by travelers or given to children for protection.
Key Features
Crisp die-struck iconography, official French 'small work' silver hallmarks on the outer edge of the bail, and a soft, aged patina only found on vintage silver.
Material & Composition
French Silver (.800 min purity per hallmarks). High silver content with copper alloy for durability.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized antique finish with raised relief (bas-relief). Features the Archangel Raphael in traveler's garb. High relief border and Latin or French lettering.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Two visible hallmarks on the bail/jump ring: likely the French Boar's Head (Tête de Sanglier) for 800 silver or Crab (Crabe) for small work, and an unidentified diamond-shaped maker's lozenge.
Construction Details
Die-struck/pressed from a steel hub into a silver blank, allowing for crisp repeatable detail. The suspension loop is integral or expertly soldered.
Functional Features
Single suspension loop (bail) at the top for attachment to a necklace chain, bracelet, or rosary.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Pendant form). The bail shows natural flattening from years of friction against a chain.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality die-striking. The detail in the wings and the lettering indicates a professional grade steel die, superior to modern cast trinkets.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of French silver hallmarks on the jump ring loop is a primary indicator of authenticity for French-made silver. Cast reproductions usually lack clear, stamped edge hallmarks.
Origin & Manufacturing
France (likely Paris or Lyon). France has a centuries-old tradition of fine die-struck religious medals known for high artistic quality.
Era & Period
Late 19th to Mid-20th Century (approx. 1890-1950). Design reflects traditional Catholic iconographic styles popular in French workshops.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1940 based on the wear patterns, hallmark style, and the distinctive 'puffy' rim construction common in that era.
Cultural Significance
Represents the widespread Catholic 'Sacramental' tradition where physical objects serve as reminders of divine protection, a major part of Western European social history.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Significant softening of the high points (Saint's face/chest) due to tactile wear ('worry' wear from rubbing). Heavy tarnish in recesses.
Value Estimate
$25 - $65 USD. Value is driven by silver hallmark status and the collectible nature of French religious medals rather than raw silver weight.
Care & Maintenance
Gently clean with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid heavy chemical dips which would remove the beautiful 'antique' oxidation in the deep recesses of the design.
Similar Pieces
Italian Sterling Medals (often marked .925, lighter weight), Aluminum Medals (cheap mass-produced versions with no intrinsic value).
Interesting Facts
St. Raphael is one of the three archangels mentioned by name in the Bible; his name means 'God Heals'. In French culture, these medals were standard baptismal or first communion gifts.