The treasure itself. Sadly, the first theory is also the most likely. According to Vendel, they were indeed melted down by Franklin Mint almost immediately after Tramiel took over.

The largest exhibit was at the Franklin Institute (222 North 20th St., Philadelphia) and featured objects drawn from the Vatican’s own collection, many of which had never been on display before.

The largest exhibit is at the Franklin Institute (222 North 20th St., Philadelphia) and features objects drawn from the Vatican’s own collection, many of which have never been on display before.

PHILADELPHIA >> Over 2,000 years of historical and cultural history from the Vatican will be crossing the Atlantic Ocean to the Franklin Institute as part of the 2015 World Meeting of Families ...

The treasures include a gold and silver reliquary with bone fragments of Saints Peter, Paul, Anne, Joseph and others; a Guercino painting of the Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus and Book in Hands ...

Visitors coming to Philadelphia to see the pope this September will also be able to view treasured art from the Vatican. “Vatican Splendors” opens Sept. 19 at the Franklin Institute. It… ...

“Vatican Splendors” has traveled to other U.S. cities, including Pittsburgh, in recent years. But organizers said 40 percent of the items are new to this tour, and it has grown in size.

Franklin Institute will open "Vatican Splendors" on September 19th, an exhibit showcasing 200 treasures from the Vatican.

"Vatican Splendors" has traveled to other U.S. cities in recent years, but organizers said 40 percent of the items are new to this tour, and it has grown in size. About 200 items will be on display.

"Vatican Splendors" has traveled to other U.S. cities in recent years, but organizers said 40 percent of the items are new to this tour, and it has grown in size. About 200 items will be on display.