St. Benedict Medal Value Guide

This vintage St. Benedict medal, originating from Italy between the 1940s and 1960s, serves as a significant Catholic sacramental known for its protective symbolism. Crafted from silver-plated brass, it represents a centuries-old tradition of faith and exorcism prayers encapsulated in a portable devotional object.

What Is St. Benedict Medal Worth?

The typical price range for St. Benedict Medal is $30 - $50 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The preservation of the silver plating over the brass core significantly impacts the $30-$50 price range.
• Legibility of the intricate Latin inscriptions and the central figure of St. Benedict.
• Historical provenance or specific Italian workshop marks from the post-war era.
• The presence of the original jump ring or bale for suspension as a pendant.

How to Identify St. Benedict Medal?

• Look for the distinct iconography of Saint Benedict holding a cross in his right hand and the 'Rule' in his left.
• Verify the presence of Latin abbreviations such as 'V R S N S M V' and 'S M Q L I V' on the reverse side.
• Check for an 'Italy' hallmark or maker's mark, typical for silver-plated brass pieces from the mid-20th century.
• Examine the wear pattern on the silver plating to ensure it reveals the underlying brass consistent with 1940s-1960s age.

History of St. Benedict Medal

The St. Benedict Medal dates back to at least the 17th century. It is one of the oldest and most honored medals and is widely used by Catholics due to its belief in protection against evil. The medal often features Saint Benedict holding a cross and his Rule, surrounded by various Latin inscriptions which are exorcism prayers.