The artifact is a 19th century postal matrix for wax seals  for the region  of Ancona in the Papal States.  It is made of brass with a fruit wood handle and a mushroom style cap.

The matrix is engraved with a papal miter, the traditional triple crown worn by popes and  ending with  the reign of Blessed Paul VI.  The cross keys, the other traditional symbol of the papacy, are also visible on the matrix.

The legend  on the seal reads, DELLA POSTA PONTIFICIA DI ANCONA UFF: Pontifical Mail of Ancona.

The matrix is in excellent condition and indicative of the method  with  which letters and documents were sealed by the Vatican during the 19th century.