Enamel Jubilee Medal of Saint Benedict

This is a circular religious devotional medal, specifically the 'Jubilee Medal of Saint Benedict,' crafted in a gold-toned metal with a distinctive blue enamel border. The obverse features a high-relief central figure of St. Benedict holding a cross in his right hand and the Holy Rule in his left. To his right is a cup with a serpent, and to his left is a raven with bread. The surrounding light blue enamel ring contains the Latin inscription 'EIUS IN OBITU NOSTRO PRAESENTIA MUNIAMUR,' which translates to 'May we be strengthened by his presence in the hour of our death.' The medal is small, likely between 20mm and 25mm in diameter, suitable for a pendant or a rosary attachment. It includes a simple metal jump ring at the top for suspension. The condition shows significant wear, with noticeable rubbing and loss of detail on the central figure's face and robes, suggesting vintage age, likely mid-20th century. There is some minor oxidation or tarnish on the gold-toned surfaces, and the light blue enamel remains largely intact, though it shows surface micro-scratching. The craftsmanship is standard for devotional jewelry of this era, likely mass-produced but with high-quality strike details originally.

I have examined the Jubilee Medal of Saint Benedict through high-resolution photography. This piece is a standard devotional item likely dating from the mid-20th century. Based on visual cues, the base metal appears to be brass or bronze with a gold-wash finish. The light blue enamel border remains vibrant, which is a desirable feature, though significant wear and loss of detail on the central figure’s relief indicate heavy use as a pocket medal or pendant. The lack of precious metal hallmarks suggests this was an accessible, mass-produced item rather than a high-jewelry liturgical piece. Market demand for vintage Catholic medals remains steady among collectors and the faithful, though value is capped by the lack of precious metal content and the commonality of this specific strike. Comparables for mid-century base-metal enamel medals typically hammer within the $30 to $85 range depending on the specific iconography and condition. The wear on the high points of the relief (St. Benedict’s face and robes) negatively impacts the value compared to mint-state examples. Note: This appraisal is based solely on digital images. A physical inspection is required to verify the base metal composition via an acid test or XRF analysis. Under magnification, I would look for specific die markers to identify the manufacturer. Final authentication would also require provenance documentation to confirm its age and origin. Because digital images can mask expertly applied modern patinas or synthetic resins used to mimic enamel, I cannot definitively confirm its vintage status without tactile and thermal testing of the enamel surfaces.