Romania, People’s Republic. A Patriarchal Cross, C.1961

This is an extremely well-preserved Patriarchal Cross of the Romanian Orthodox Church, constructed of silver with blue enamels and faux ruby gemstones. The award presents as four inter-connected Romanian Crosses, with silver borders and blue enameled arms, joined to a central medallion bearing the name and monogram of Patriarch Justinian (Ioan) Marina. The reverse has a central engraved inscription of “PATRIARHIA ROMANA II”. Suspended from the bottom cross is a small decoration, composed of a red gemstone over top of a Cross Pattée, measuring 15.35 mm (w) x 17.07 mm (h). The top cross has a barrel hinge connecting to a crown suspension composed of silver, red gemstones, and blue enamels. The reverse of the crown features a loop which is attached to a chain suspension. The connecting ring is stamped with a Romanian silver mark indicating a content of .916 and a manufacture year of 1961. The cross measures 81.49 mm (w) x 130.25 mm (h), inclusive of suspension apparatus, and weighs 90.2 grams. Minor tarnishing and scratching of the silver and enamels is evident, but the cross is in an otherwise near extremely fine condition.

Footnote: Established in 1925 by Patriarch Miron Cristea, the Patriarchal Cross (Crucea Patriarhală) is the highest award that can be bestowed by the Patriarch of the Romanian Orthodox Church. Clergy and laity alike are eligible for the award, with contributions to spiritual life, missionary work, charity, and philanthropy being the primary criteria for nomination. Each Patriarch has customized the appearance of the award during their tenure in office. The example offered, under the auspices of Patriarch Justinian Marina (1948-1977), was the first to be awarded in blue.