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On April 21, 2025, the world learned of the passing of Pope Francis, who had been battling illness in the months leading up to his death. His final public appearance was on Easter Sunday, April 20, when he delivered a brief message and greeted crowds in St. Peter’s Square from his “Popemobile.” The Pope’s death marked the beginning of a period of mourning and formal procedures, known as the Sede Vacante (Latin for “The seat is vacant”), which officially commences with the sealing of the Papal apartment using a red ribbon and wax seal. The Pope’s Fisherman’s Ring, a symbol of his authority, is also destroyed by the Camerlengo—currently Cardinal Kevin Farrell—using a ceremonial hammer. While these rituals were originally intended to prevent fraud, they now serve as symbolic gestures in the modern era.
Pope Francis was not only the spiritual leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics but also a global political figure who advocated for peace, justice, and the marginalized. His passing has drawn attention to the Vatican’s efforts to protect the Pope’s image and likeness, particularly in the realm of souvenirs and collectibles. In 2017, the Vatican recognized the need to safeguard the Papal image from mass production, leading to intellectual property protections. This move has influenced the market for Papal memorabilia, which includes everything from postcards and tea towels to bobblehead dolls and trading cards.
The Vatican, a 100-acre city-state, attracts six million visitors annually, many of whom purchase souvenirs from official stores, museums, and local vendors. The summer of 2025 was set to be particularly significant, as the Vatican planned to celebrate a “Holy Year” or Jubilee, a 25-year event focused on reconciliation and remembrance. However, the Pope’s death has cast a somber tone over the festivities, with organizers reevaluating events and activities. Father Brian Cummings, a priest on sabbatical in Rome, described the atmosphere in St. Peter’s Square as quiet and reflective, despite the presence of pilgrims and tourists.
The confluence of the Pope’s funeral, the upcoming conclave to elect his successor, and the Jubilee is expected to drive interest in Papal memorabilia. While common items like tea towels, fridge magnets, and coffee cups are unlikely to appreciate in value, more unique and historical items may see increased demand. Rosary beads, often blessed by the Pope, are popular among pilgrims but remain relatively affordable due to their abundance. Autographs from Pope Francis are rare, though he occasionally responded to letters with his signature. Event programs, ticket stubs, and ephemera from Papal visits, such as those from Pope John Paul II’s 1979 tour of the U.S. and Ireland, are also sought after by collectors.
One surprising category of Papal memorabilia is trading cards. In 2015, during Pope Francis’s visit to Philadelphia, a Phillies rookie card featuring the Pontiff became a popular souvenir, recently selling for just over $20. This reflects the Pope’s status as a cultural and historical figure, akin to sports heroes or royal family members. Collectors of presidential or royal memorabilia may find Vatican-themed items equally compelling, especially as the world reflects on Pope Francis’s legacy.
As the Vatican prepares for the Pope’s funeral and the election of a new leader, the market for Papal collectibles is expected to evolve. Items commemorating Pope Francis’s life and papacy, as well as historical artifacts related to the Papacy, will likely attract attention from collectors and enthusiasts. Whether it’s a personally blessed rosary, a vintage trading card, or a ticket stub from a Papal Mass, these items serve as tangible connections to a figure who touched the lives of millions worldwide.
Brenda Kelley Kim, a Boston-based author and columnist, highlights the enduring appeal of Papal memorabilia, drawing parallels to other collectible genres. As the world bids farewell to Pope Francis and looks ahead to the future of the Catholic Church, the legacy of his papacy will continue to inspire and resonate with people across the globe.
