Miraculous Medal (Medaille de la Rue du Bac) Sterling Silver Pendant
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medallion) · Typically manufactured by specialized religious jewelers such as Creed, HMDR, or Charel. These makers specialized in devotional items for the Catholic market, often based in France or the USA.
Pattern: Miraculous Medal / Our Lady of Graces; a traditional design standardized by the 1832 apparition to St. Catherine Labouré.
Type
Jewelry (Religious Pendant/Medallion)
Maker
Typically manufactured by specialized religious jewelers such as Creed, HMDR, or Charel. These makers specialized in devotional items for the Catholic market, often based in France or the USA.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) is standard for such quality pieces. The base metal is silver throughout, evidenced by the light tarnish and lack of base metal 'bleeding' visible on high points.
Dimensions
Estimated 20mm x 12mm (Small/Medium size). Weight approximately 1.5 to 2.5 grams. This is a standard individual wearer size, not a large commemorative medallion.
Description
A classic oval Miraculous Medal in sterling silver. The reverse side displayed shows the iconic symbols of the Catholic faith: the letter M joined to a cross representing Mary's role in the cruxificion, flanked by the thorns of the Sacred Heart and the sword-pierced heart of Mary, surrounded by twelve stars.
Key Features
Standardized iconographic layout; oval format; raised 'lip' or rim to protect the interior detail; crisp star embossing around the perimeter.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) is standard for such quality pieces. The base metal is silver throughout, evidenced by the light tarnish and lack of base metal 'bleeding' visible on high points.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized satin finish with relief embossing. The reverse side (shown) features the 'M' surmounted by a cross, the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Immaculate Heart of Mary, and a border of twelve stars.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically stamped 'STERLING' or '.925' on the rim or the bale loop. French examples may feature the Crab or Boar's head hallmark; American versions usually feature a simple maker's mark.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a metal sheet using a master steel hub. This high-pressure stamping method creates the crisp detail in the stars and lettering seen in the image.
Functional Features
Single jump ring attachment for suspension on a chain (necklace). The design is double-sided by tradition, intended to be worn as a sacramental.
Handle & Grip Details
Suspension loop (bale) is a simple wire-soldered ring. Condition appears slightly worn from friction against a chain.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-die struck with hand-finishing and tumbling. The symmetry in the twelve stars indicates high-quality industrial die-casting standard for mid-century silver jewelry.
Authentication Indicators
Consistency of the 'M' and heart iconography; appropriate density for sterling silver; wear patterns consistent with a pendant rubbing against clothing.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely USA or Italy. These regions dominant the global production of sterling silver devotional medals from the 1950s onward.
Era & Period
Modern Devotional (20th Century). While the design originates in 1832, the font and star spacing suggest a mid-to-late 20th-century production.
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1980. The wear patterns on the raised edges suggest several decades of use, but the font is consistent with post-WWII manufacturing.
Cultural Significance
A major symbol of Catholic piety. It is believed by wearers to bring special graces. Millions of these have been cast in various metals, but silver remains the preferred 'noble' material for daily wear.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible tarnish (oxidation) in the recessed areas, which is desirable as it highlights the detail. Light surface wear on the high points of the hearts and cross.
Value Estimate
$15 - $45 USD. Value is driven by silver content and sentimental/devotional appeal rather than rarity, unless it is a signed piece by a famous artist like Fernand Py.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft toothbrush and mild soap to remove oils. Use a silver polishing cloth for the high points, but avoid liquid dips which will remove the intentional oxidation in the recessed details.
Similar Pieces
Saint Christopher medals (round), Scapular medals, or Miraculous Medals in aluminum (cheaper, lighter) or 14k Gold (more expensive).
Interesting Facts
The design is said to have been specified by the Virgin Mary during an apparition to Catherine Labouré in Paris. It is one of the most widely produced silver items in history.