Vatican, Papal State. A Bene Merenti Medal, C.1918 consisting of a blue enamelled Romanian Cross with clusters of nine gilt rays in eac with a white enamel surround

with a white enamel surround inscribed ΙΣΧΥΣ ΜΟΥΗ ΑΓΑΠΗ ΤΟΥ ΛΑΟΥ

26mm (h – inclusive of integral ball atop wreath)

WILLIS-O'CONNOR)

the latter with tears on the right side

Medals and Badges in the Inset

Vatican, Papal State. A Bene Merenti Medal, C.1918 consisting of a blue enamelled Romanian Cross with clusters of nine gilt rays in eac with a white enamel surroundPope Benedict XV, 1914 1922. Bronze Bene Merenti medal, with obverse bearing a bust of Pope Benedict XV, encircled by the Keys of St. Peter and inscribed Benedictvs XV, Pont Max, reverse bearing Latin Bene Merenti (translation: For Merit), in original case of issue, case with seal of Vatican on the exterior, measuring at 41. 60mm (w) x 66. 07 (h to top of ring suspension), weighing 46. 8 grams, with original ribbon.