Vatican, Papal State. An Order Of Pius Ix, Iii Class Knight, C.1845 Auction making this order extremely rare

making this order extremely rare

In stamped steel painted blue with smooth field

under the arch is a Savoyard knot

The corresponding decree to this award

this style with this reverse having the safety pin-back

Vatican, Papal State. An Order Of Pius Ix, Iii Class Knight, C.1845 Auction making this order extremely rare(Ordine di Pio IX, AKA Ordine Piano). Instituted in 1847. Four piece construction, in 18K Gold with navy blue and white enamels, weighing 14. 3 grams, unmarked, inscribed "PIVS IX" (Pope Pius IX, Papacy: 1856 1878) on the centrepiece, the centrepiece ring inscribed in Latin "VIRTVTI ET MERITO" (Virtue and Merit), the centrepiece backed by eight enamelled star points, with flames appearing between each star point, measuring 42. 8 mm (w) x 48. 3 mm (h)