Vatican, Papal States. An Order of St. Sylvester in Gold, Knight c.1855

(Ordine di San Silvestro Papa). Instituted 1841. 1841-1870 issue. An early example in Gold, possibly of French manufacture, consisting of an enameled white Maltese Cross, with a rotating spur on the 6 o’clock arm, featuring clusters of Gold rays in each quadrant, obverse centre exhibiting a superposed Gold portrait of St. Sylvestre on an enameled blue field, surrounded by the inscription SANC. SILVESTER P.M., plain reverse with central medallion depicting the institution date MDCCCXLI (1841) encircled by the inscription GREGORUS XVI RESTITUTIVIT, measuring 38.21 mm (w) x 43.68 (h - inclusive of integral ring), weighting 9.7 grams, presenting cracked white enamels, on early 20th century ribbon, extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of St. Sylvester is awarded by the Pope to Catholics who are actively involved in the everyday activities of the church. It is also conferred upon individuals who have rendered professional and civil service in the realm of art, science, and literature that have benefited the church. The modern Order may also be awarded to non-Catholic recipients and women. 

This offering is a part of the "Dr. Albert Goodwin Collection", a preeminent assemblage of world Orders, Medals, and Decorations composed solely by Dr.Goodwin between 1946-1967. Dr. Goodwin had a successful career as an educator and prominent physician in New York as well as actively serving in both World Wars with the United States Medical Corps. He acted as both President and Vice-President of the Orders and Medals Society of America (OMSA) and is responsible for organizing their first convention in 1960. He maintained further membership with the American Society of Military Collectors, the International Orders Research Society, and the American Numismatic Society. His knowledge and passion for history and awards is evident in this meticulously compiled collection that is now available in its entirety for the first time exclusively on eMedals.com.