Sixtus V 1587 Restoration of Order Medal

Obverse: Pope Sixtus V right. Reverse: a traveler, with his head resting on a bag, lies under a fig tree; around, PERFECTA SECURITAS. Rural disorder and brigandage plagued the papal state at the end of Gregory XIII's pontificate and Sixtus V, immediately upon his accession, pursued a relentless campaign against bandits. Hundreds of severed heads were exhibited on the Ponte Sant'Angelo and, in 1587, a member of the famous Malatesta family was captured and executed. This medal commemorates the restoration of internal security and portrays Sixtus V as a protector of the humble. Bronze, 36.5mm across, an early 19th century restitution.