Antique 1908 Sloan & Co. 14K Gold Rosary — Attributed Blessing of Pope Pius X

Antique 1908 Sloan & Co. 14K Gold Rosary — Attributed Blessing of Pope Pius X

Specifications

• Maker: Sloan & Co.
• Metal: 14K gold (tested)
• Weight: 26.4 grams
• Dimensions: Approx. 18.5" overall; approx. 24" wearable loop; crucifix approx. 2" long; alternating 7mm and 5.5mm beads
• Circa: 1908 (MCMVIII, engraved)
• Inscriptions: MCMVIII; Pio Papa X M.L.E.; SSDN (Sanctissimus Dominus Noster — "Our Most Holy Lord")
• Condition: Excellent antique condition; two beads with minor dents consistent with age and use

A beautifully preserved early 20th-century gold rosary by Sloan & Co., a respected American maker known for quality workmanship during this period. Crafted entirely in solid 14K gold and weighing a substantial 26.4 grams, the piece features well-formed cable links and smoothly polished beads demonstrating both durability and careful hand-finishing. The alternating bead sizes create a refined visual rhythm, while the crucifix displays crisp modeling of Christ against a softly matte ground — a deliberate contrast in surface treatment.

The reverse of the cross carries engraved inscriptions that align with formal papal blessing conventions of the period: MCMVIII (1908); Pio Papa X M.L.E.; and SSDN, an abbreviation for Sanctissimus Dominus Noster ("Our Most Holy Lord"). The phrase M.L.E. — Munere Litterarum Ecclesiasticarum — refers to the official ecclesiastical documentation through which such blessings were formally conferred. Taken together, these inscriptions are consistent with a rosary that received a formal blessing under Pope Pius X, who was later canonized and remains closely associated with early 20th-century Catholic devotional life. The blessing is attributed on the basis of these inscriptions rather than independent documentation.

With a wearable loop length of approximately 24 inches, the rosary drapes elegantly as a necklace while remaining fully functional for devotional use. The combination of intrinsic gold value, period Sloan & Co. craftsmanship, and a provenance tied — however traditionally — to a canonized pope makes this an uncommon find in the antique religious jewelry market.