Vintage Italian sterling silver creed rosary

There are a great number of these on the market, currently on Ebay, other examples have sold in the 180.00- 325.00 range depending on the weight of the silver, the longer the chain and the weight generally make the difference. Sterling Silver items ( 92.5% silver) do have a base "Scrap" or "Melt' value at around 27.00 per ounce, the values vary by day and demand. Anything above that depends on the rarity of the item or provenance.

Description and Features

This item is a vintage Italian sterling silver rosary, crafted entirely from sterling silver. It is stamped with the hallmark “Sterling Creed”, indicating its material composition and connection to the Creed company, a reputable maker of religious jewelry and devotional items. The rosary is in excellent condition, with the following key details:

• Material: Sterling silver (tested and confirmed by magnet and ice test).
• Length: Approximately 24 inches.
• Beads: Solid sterling silver beads, each featuring a polished, vintage finish.
• Crucifix: Detailed sterling silver crucifix with the INRI banner and ornate design.
• Centerpiece: A rectangular sterling silver medallion depicting religious iconography, likely the Virgin Mary and Christ.

Historical Significance

The Creed company, founded in the early 1900s in the United States, is known for producing high-quality religious items, particularly rosaries, crucifixes, and medals. Rosaries like this one, entirely crafted from sterling silver, were often produced in limited quantities due to their expense and weight. They were frequently gifted for significant occasions such as baptisms, confirmations, or ordinations. The Italian connection suggests that this rosary may have been imported or created as a collaborative piece.

Condition

The rosary is in excellent vintage condition, with no visible damage, missing beads, or structural issues. The silver shows a natural patina consistent with its age, which enhances its vintage appeal.

Market Value

The value of vintage sterling silver rosaries can vary depending on factors such as craftsmanship, material, condition, and rarity. Based on current market trends:

1. Comparable Sales:
   • Similar sterling silver rosaries (24" length) have sold for between $150 and $300 USD in online auctions and specialty religious antique stores.
   • Pieces with detailed craftsmanship and reputable hallmarks like “Creed” often achieve higher values.
2. Estimated Value for This Rosary:
   • $200–$250 USD in its current condition.

Important Notes

• As with all online appraisals, this value is an estimate based on provided photos and descriptions. To confirm material authenticity and exact weight, an in-person evaluation by a certified appraiser or jeweler is recommended.
• The exact weight of the rosary could slightly influence its value, given the importance of silver content in appraisals.

Recommendations for Sale

If you intend to sell the rosary:

• Highlight the hallmark “Sterling Creed” and its vintage nature in any listings.
• Emphasize its excellent condition and detailed craftsmanship.
• Consider listing on platforms like eBay, Etsy, or a specialized religious collectibles marketplace to reach an audience interested in vintage religious artifacts.

If you have further questions or need assistance with selling or finding an appraiser, let me know!