Ref: 0009930-18: "Maltese Cross" Seal

This is a refined Italian seal that consists of a waxed turned wooden handle and a bronze disc engraved with the "Maltese Cross" symbol.

The Maltese Cross, also known as the Cross of St. John, has been a symbol of the Maritime Republic of Amalfi since at least the 11th century, as confirmed by some Amalfi tarì coins from 1080 on which this cross is clearly marked. It is also the symbol of the Hospitallers of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.
This cross, with its characteristic shape, is used as a religious, honorary or national symbol.
The symbol is an octagonal (i.e., eight-pointed) cross of Byzantine origin, probably dating from the 6th century. Its design is based on crosses used since the First Crusade.