Pope John XXIII Silver Commemorative Medal Pendant
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant) · Typically manufactured by Italian devotional workshops such as those in Rome or Milan; often commissioned for Vatican tourists or as commemorative gifts during the papacy.
Pattern: Papal Commemorative Portrait Series; ‘Joannes XXIII PONT. MAX.’ profile
Type
Jewelry (Religious Medal/Pendant)
Maker
Typically manufactured by Italian devotional workshops such as those in Rome or Milan; often commissioned for Vatican tourists or as commemorative gifts during the papacy.
Material
Likely 800 Silver (continental European standard) or Sterling Silver (.925); possibly silver-plated brass or nickel depending on specific hallmark, showing oxidized patina in recessed areas.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 15-18mm (approx. the size of a U.S. dime); weight between 1.5 and 3.0 grams.
Description
This is a quintessential Catholic devotional medal featuring the likeness of Pope John XXIII, known as 'The Good Pope.' The obverse shows the Pope in profile wearing the mozzetta and stole, with the Latin inscription 'JOANNES XXIII PONT. MAX.' (Pontifex Maximus). It represents a period of significant change in the Catholic Church, specifically the convening of the Second Vatican Council.
Key Features
Highly detailed portrait including the papal garments; Latin nomenclature; petite size characteristic of 20th-century daily-wear religious jewelry.
Material & Composition
Likely 800 Silver (continental European standard) or Sterling Silver (.925); possibly silver-plated brass or nickel depending on specific hallmark, showing oxidized patina in recessed areas.
Finish & Decoration
High-relief casting/striking with an oxidized or antiqued finish to highlight the detail of the Pope's vestments and facial features. Features a profile bust of Pope John XXIII on the obverse and likely a Marian image or Coat of Arms on the reverse.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the jump ring or the thin rim of the medal; common marks include '800', 'ITALY', or a tiny lozenge-shaped Italian maker's mark consisting of a star, numbers, and city initials (e.g., * 126 AR).
Construction Details
Die-struck/die-stamped from a metal blank using a high-pressure press to achieve the sculptural relief; includes an integral bail or soldered jump ring for suspension on a chain.
Functional Features
Closed-loop jump ring for secure attachment to a necklace or rosary; textured background to reduce glare and emphasize the central figure.
Handle & Grip Details
Simple circular jump ring attachment; original condition would have been bright silver, now showing natural age-related tarnishing.
Craftsmanship Details
Exhibit of professional die-sinking; the three-dimensional depth of the ear and the embroidery on the stole indicate a high-quality production die rather than a cheap tourist cast.
Authentication Indicators
The style of the Latin lettering and the specific profile treatment are consistent with mid-century Italian minting; authentic pieces will feel dense for their size and lack the 'pitting' common in modern pewter reproductions.
Origin & Manufacturing
Italy, likely Rome or the Lombardy region, which has a long tradition of producing Catholic devotional metalwork.
Era & Period
Modern Era / Vatican II Era (c. 1958–1963); specifically reflecting the profile of Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli (St. John XXIII).
Age Estimate
Circa 1958-1965; produced during his papacy or shortly after his death in 1963.
Cultural Significance
Acts as a 'portable shrine' and a symbol of Catholic identity; commemorates one of the most beloved popes of the 20th century who was instrumental in modernizing the Church.
Condition Notes
Good condition with moderate tarnish (sulfide buildup) in the recesses of the relief. Minor surface scratches consistent with being worn on a chain; jump ring appears slightly distorted but intact.
Value Estimate
Market value typically ranges from $15.00 to $45.00 USD depending on whether the metal is 800 silver or sterling, and the crispness of the strike.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft toothbrush and mild dish soap to remove oils; use a dedicated silver polishing cloth for the raised highlights; avoid chemical 'dips' which can strip the beautiful antiqued patina from the recesses.
Similar Pieces
Medals of Pope Paul VI (successive pope) or Pope John Paul II; these are often distinguishable by the specific facial profile and the unique date stamps or Coat of Arms on the reverse.
Interesting Facts
Pope John XXIII was canonized as a saint in 2014; medals like these were often blessed by the Pope himself during public audiences in St. Peter's Square.