Vatican, Papal States. A Pontifical Equestrian Order of St.Gregorius, Grand Cross, by A. Tanfani, c.1875

(Ordo Sancti Gregorii Magni). Instituted 1831. Eight-pointed silver star, obverse centre in Gold presenting a superposed enameled red Maltese Cross with ball finials, the centre with an affixed portrait of St. Gregorius on an enameled blue background, surrounded by inscription “S GREGORIUS MAGNUS”, reverse with flat pin assembly, marked by early maker’s cartouche of A. Tanfani, measuring 79.2 mm (w) x 78.6mm (h), with minor toned silver on the star, with enamel loss to centre, overall extremely good condition.

Footnote: The Order of St. Gregory the Great was established on September 1, 1831, by Pope Gregory XVI. The Order of St. Gregory the Great is one of the five Orders of Knighthood of the Holy See. The honor is bestowed upon Roman Catholic men and women, sometimes in rare cases to non-Catholics, in recognition of their personal service to the Holy See and to the Roman Catholic Church.