Vatican, Papal State. A Pope Pius IX Bene Merenti Medal, c.1930 GTRexclude 8mm (w) x 41mm (h

8mm (w) x 41mm (h – inclusive of integral ring)

after the Wehrmacht's rapid early successes on the Russian Front

exposing the underlying wooden frame

circumscribing a central ribbed ring

An insulated wire descends from each earpiece and fuses into a single wire

Vatican, Papal State. A Pope Pius IX Bene Merenti Medal, c.1930 GTRexclude 8mm (w) x 41mm (hInstituted 1933. In silver and red enamels, featuring a cross with red enamelled border and inscription in between each arms reading N JUB HUM RED, the reverse presents the inscription PIVS XI. P. M. AXIII BENEMERENTI in blue enamels, surmounted by a papal coat of arms, measures 30. 7 mm (w) x 97. 25 mm (h), marked 800 on reverse of inscription, worn on replacement ribbon, light wear, very fine condition. Contained in the case of issue, a burgundy