Vatican, Papal State. An Order of Pope Pius IX, Knight in Gold, c.1850 United Republic of with fold over flaps and

with fold over flaps and small brass Canada Service buttons sewn on each

each clip marked "D

one is bronze

the adjoining ball final bent back

Vatican, Papal State. An Order of Pope Pius IX, Knight in Gold, c.1850 United Republic of with fold over flaps and(Ordine di Pio IX). Instituted June 17th, 1847. In Gold, a blue enamel star with rays in each quadrant, the obverse medallion features PIVS IX surrounded by a ring inscribed VIRTVTI ET MERITO, reverse has been repaired with a plain gold disc in the center, measures 41. 4 mm (w) x 47. 5 mm (h inclusive of integral ring), weighs 14. 78 grams, marked with a Rome gold mark denoting Gold composition from 1815 1870, partial makers mark, notable missing and