1867 Pius IX Medal SS Peter & Paul – Bronze 49mm – Rare Rainbow Patina – R Papal States – Rome Pope Pius IX (1846–1878) 1867 Bronze Medal – 18th Centenary of the Martyrdom of Saints Peter & Paul Large 49 mm – Bartolotti XXII, 3 – RARE Exceptional Original Rainbow Patina – Premium Condition Offered here is a magnificent original bronze medal struck in 1867 under Pope Pius IX to commemorate the 18th centenary of the martyrdom of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, the two foundational pillars of the Christian Church and patrons of Rome. This is the large 49 mm version (Bartolotti XXII, 3), classified as Rare, and extremely desirable in this exceptional state with a natural multicolored rainbow patina—featuring iridescent blue, violet, gold, and rose tones across both sides. A truly premium example for advanced collectors of papal or religious medals. ⸻ Obverse Legend: ROMAE PARENTES ARBITRIQVE GENTIVM Beautiful conjoined busts of Saint Peter (S. PETRVS) and Saint Paul (S. PAVLVS), both struck with strong sculptural detail. Below them appear their martyrdom symbols: the crossed keys and the sword. The engraving is deep, crisp, and typical of high-quality Roman medallic work of the mid-19th century. ⸻ Reverse Eight-line inscription commemorating the solemn centenary festivities held in Rome: PIO IX PONTIFICE MAXIMO SAECVLARIA SOLEMNIA TRIVMPHO PETRI ET PAVLLI APOSTOLOR RECOLENDO ACTA ROMAE III KAL IVLIAS AN. CHR. MDCCCLXVII (1867) Decorative floral dividers at top and bottom complete the elegant composition. ⸻ Specifications • Metal: Bronze • Diameter: 49 mm • Weight: approx. 48 g • Reference: Bartolotti XXII, 3 (Rare) • Mint: Rome • Date: 1867 • Orientation: Medal alignment • Edge: Plain ⸻ Condition – Premium Eye Appeal This is an outstanding example: • Brilliant rainbow iridescent toning (blue, violet, gold) • Extremely sharp reliefs • Beautiful surfaces with minimal handling • No cleaning, no damage • Superior to the vast majority of known examples A true high-end collector’s piece. ⸻ Rarity & Collectability This medal is highly sought after due to: Historical significance (18th Centenary of SS. Peter & Paul) Large 49 mm module Pius IX – one of the most collected Popes Rare classification in Bartolotti Exceptional natural rainbow toning (very hard to find) Perfect for advanced collections of: • Papal medals • Vatican numismatics • Religious art • 19th-century medallic engraving