Description
This is an unusual badge that has lost its attachment pin. Measuring 1″ in diameter, it has an elaborate, enamel face that features a winged lion holding an open book with one paw (the symbol for St. Mark the Evangelist). The gilt metal lion and book are displayed in moderate high-relief against a circular red enamel background in the badge’s center. A blue enamel border encircles three-quarters of the badge’s outer edge. The border contains three words separated by dots: “Ovar – Ducat -Venet.” It may refer to Venice, and its famous St. Mark’s Basilica. At one time, Venice issued ducats that were used as a type of international currency when Venice was a powerful city-state. The bottom quarter is covered with white enamel, wherein three metal symbols appear. These symbols are two metal rosettes/flowers on either side of what appear to be a set of crossed keys (or perhaps swords).
