Physical Description

Cross with four arms and rays between them in bronze gilt, obverse centre featuring an image of the Immaculate Conception, reverse centre with cipher within a wreath.

History

The Order of the Immaculate Conception was instituted in honor of the Virgin Mary and the Immaculate Conception by Ferdinand I Gonzaga, the Duke of Mantua. It was officially recognized by Pope Urban VIII in 1625.

Recipient's of the Order were members of nobility and had to be willing to sacrifice their lives and states in the defense of the Catholic faith, whether it required action on land or sea.

The Order was discontinued in 1701 with the fall of the Duchy of Mantua.

The reverse medallion features a monogram.