(Ordine Equestre di San Gregorio Magno). Instituted on 1 September 1831 by Pope Gregory XVI. Civil Division. In silver gilt, a red enamelled Maltese cross with ball finials, the obverse medallion featuring a portrait of Saint Gregory on a blue enamelled field, surrounded by a ring inscribed S. GREGORIUS MAGNUS, reverse features a blue enamelled field with the inscription PRO DEO ET PRINCIPE (For God and Ruler), in a surround inscribed GREGORIUS XVI P.M.A. NNO I, suspended from a green enamelled wreath denoting civilian division, maker marked on the reverse of the wreath TANFANI & BERTARELLI and marked A on the opposite side of the maker mark, measures 55.5mm (w) x 83.1mm (h – inclusive of wreath suspension), weighs 38.3 grams (including ribbon), worn on a period commander ribbon with elastic cord and metal hook and eye at the ends, slightly enamel wear on reverse medallion, otherwise enamels intact, a lovely decoration in extremely fine condition.
Footnote: This Order was founded by Pope Gregory XVI, and it was originally conferred upon Catholics who exhibited zeal for the Catholic faith, and loyalty to the Vatican.