Coin Identifier
Antique Devotional / Pilgrimage Medal — obverse
Obverse
Antique Devotional / Pilgrimage Medal — reverse
Reverse
N/A (Devotional Medal)

Antique Devotional / Pilgrimage Medal

Likely Italy or Central Europe · Late 18th to 19th Century (c. 1780 - 1880)

An octagonal devotional pendant featuring a depiction of the Virgin Mary and Child on the obverse and a Crucifixion scene on the reverse, complete with an integral loop and suspension ring.

Country
Likely Italy or Central Europe
Year
Late 18th to 19th Century (c. 1780 - 1880)
Denomination
N/A (Devotional Medal)
Metal
Cast Brass or Bronze with potential silver wash

This report is AI-generated and can be wrong. Always verify grade, authenticity, and value with a qualified dealer or certified grading service before buying, selling, or insuring.

Explore Antique Devotional / Pilgrimage Medal in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own coins.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

Overview

An octagonal devotional pendant featuring a depiction of the Virgin Mary and Child on the obverse and a Crucifixion scene on the reverse, complete with an integral loop and suspension ring.

Historical significance

Devotional and pilgrimage medals of this type were commonly produced in Catholic regions across Europe, especially Italy, for personal piety, remembrance of holy sites, or as sacramental objects distributed during religious festivals.

Obverse (front)

Features a standing figure of the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child, surrounded by Latin lettering reading 'S. MARIA' on the left side.

Reverse (back)

Depicts a traditional Crucifixion scene with Jesus on the cross, surrounded by a decorative beaded or ornate border.

Estimated value

$10-$30 depending on collector interest, exact age, and preservation

What drives this coin's value

Age, overall aesthetic appeal, clarity of the casting, presence of original suspension hardware, and historic significance

Grade assessment

Fine to Very Fine (Moderate wear from historical use, clear details remaining on primary design elements)

Mintage & rarity

Common to Scarce (Mass-produced for the period, but individually unique due to cast production methods)

Authenticity & counterfeit red flags

Check for authentic casting porosity, natural patination consistent with age, and period-appropriate wear on the suspension loop

Notable varieties & errors

Varies widely by regional workshops, minor variations in lettering fonts, and sizing of the octagonal flan

Similar coins

Various 18th-to-20th-century European religious pendants, scapular medals, and Jubilee medals

Care & preservation

Store in a dry, stable environment. Avoid harsh chemical cleaning or polishing to preserve the historic patina and original surfaces.