Saint Francis of Assisi Medal Value Guide

These mid-century Italian devotional medals are highly sought after by collectors of religious numismatics and animal lovers alike. Featuring intricate depictions of the patron saint of the environment surrounded by creatures, they serve as both portable tokens of faith and historical artifacts of 20th-century Catholic devotion.

What Is Saint Francis of Assisi Medal Worth?

The typical price range for Saint Francis of Assisi Medal is $10 - $15 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Material composition, with solid bronze examples generally fetching the higher end of the $10-$15 range.
• The clarity and detail of the 'Canticle of the Creatures' imagery and the saint's features.
• Overall condition of the attachment loop and presence of original oxidation versus artificial darkening.
• The specific artistic rendering of the animals, as more detailed wildlife depictions can increase collector interest.

How to Identify Saint Francis of Assisi Medal?

• Look for the 'Italy' or 'Italy' hallmark typically stamped on the reverse or near the bale.
• Examine the relief for classic 1950s-1970s styling, showing Saint Francis in traditional friar robes with birds or wolves.
• Verify the material composition, which should be a solid bronze-tone alloy or pewter rather than modern lightweight plastic.
• Check for natural patina and wear on the high points of the saint's face and the surrounding animals.

History of Saint Francis of Assisi Medal

Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment, lived in the 13th century. Devotional medals like this one became popular in the 19th and 20th centuries as portable tokens of faith and protection for pets and nature lovers. The imagery typically includes the saint in his friar robes, often preaching to birds or accompanied by various creatures, reflecting his famous 'Canticle of the Creatures'.