I acquired this item in 1991 from James J Curto's estate, a 60 year collecting experience numismatist who lived in Grosse Pointe, MI and had a large US and Canadian Exonumia collection.

In my 58 years in this hobby, travelling extensively to major shows and major auctions, I've not seen another. I showed it to Harv Gamer, a good friend and once-major Calgary professional numismatist, who suggested that it may be an early Canadian Jesuit Indian Peace medal. I think he may be correct.

It is silver plated antimony (tested, but appears silver).

Center : a red-enameled (somewhat worn) high-relief heart with what appears to be rows of thorns in relief and below in relief numerous tears. Above a white enameled white cross in relief surrounded by flames in relief. Around the periphery in relief spear points or machete blades with raised rays interspersed. Integral suspension loop at top and an old cord for suspension around the neck.

Reverse blank.

Heavily toned. Quite heavy, perhaps 10 ozs.
Dimensions 110 mm x 88 mm.

I've already checked with the only living Canadian expert in Canadian early medals and IPM's that I know of - Warren Baker - and he's not seen this medal before .It may in fact not be an IPM or Canadian but it is very old, intriguingly designed for wearing and quite rare. Perhaps an E-Sylum reader can identify it?

It's a new one to me, and therefore can't give you any valid opinion or even speculation on it. It is indeed intriguing.