History

This Medal was instituted by Pope IX, and it was conferred upon all personnel within the Papal Army that participated in the Second Italian War of Independence, also known as the Sardinian War of 1859/1860 or the Franco-Austrian War.

It is also known as the Pro Petri Sede Medal.

The ribbon may be decorated with clasps associated with the battles in which the recipient participated, including "FIDARDO," "CASTELFIDARDO," "ST. ANGELO," "ANCONA," "SPOLETO," "MONTE-PELAGO," and "PERUGIA."

The Silver Medal (for Officers) is composed of pure Silver and was conferred upon higher ranking Officers who participated in the battle.