Skip to main content
Collections Menu
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Grand Cross of Merit
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

Grand Cross of Merit

Artifact ID1970.10.212 (A)
Object Type Pendant, Religious
Date 1961
Medium Gold
DimensionsOverall H 4 in x W 2 1/2 in (10.2 cm x 6.4 cm )
Physical Description
Physical DescriptionGold filled religious pendant in the shape of a cross from the Order of Malta. Inscription in Latin and suspended from a gold-filled openwork crown.
Historical NoteIn 1962, Lyndon Johnson was awarded the Grand Cross of Merit. Awarded by Order of Malta, the Grand Cross of Merit is the highest decoration a non-Catholic can receive.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from the general public to Vice-President Johnson during his term in office. It was received by Vice-President Johnson personally, until the Vice-President donated it to the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum in 1970.
Credit LineGift of Lyndon Baines Johnson
National Archives Catalog CollectionLyndon B. Johnson Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 192413)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts from the General Public (National Archives Identifier 189698395)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view
Place Gifted
Malta
Related Links