Vatican. Pontifical Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great for Civil Merit, Commander's Set

Ordine di San Gregorio Magno. Instituted in 1831. Badge: in silver gilt with red, navy blue and green enamels, measuring 58.2 mm (w) x 85.3 mm (h) inclusive of its wreath suspension, on its original full-length neck ribbon with elasticized ties; and Breast Star: insignia in silver gilt with red and navy blue enamels, mounted to an eight-pointed star base, each star point with five faceted rays, maker marked "TANFANI BERTARELLI" on the reverse cartouche, measuring 82.5 mm (w) x 82.2 mm (h), vertical pinback. Intact enamels, extremely fine. In their hardshelled case of issue, Vatican coat-of-arms within an ornate border on the lid, maker marked "TANFANI & BERTARELLI ROMA" on the inside lid, lightly soiled raised platform with framed and slotted medal beds, wear and light soiling evident on the exterior, case very fine.

Footnote: The Pontifical Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great was established on September 1, 1831, by Pope Gregory XVI, seven months after his election to that seat by the College of Cardinals. The Order of St. Gregory the Great is one of the five Orders of Knighthood of the Holy See. The honour is bestowed upon Roman Catholic men and women (and sometimes in rare cases to non-Catholics) in recognition of their personal service to the Holy See and to the Roman Catholic Church, through their unusual labours, their support of the Holy See, and their excellent examples set forth in their communities and their countries. The Order of St. Gregory the Great has four "classes" in civil and military divisions: Knight/Dame Grand Cross of the First Class, Knight/Dame Commander with Star, Knight/Dame Commander and Knight/Dame.