<p>Pope Benedict XVI's gold papal ring, the symbol of his power used to officially seal documents and ensure their authenticity, has been cancelled, Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said.<br /><br /></p>.<p>Known as the Fisherman's Ring, it was due to be destroyed with a special silver hammer after Benedict's resignation Feb 28, symbolising the end of his authority.<br /><br />Earlier, Claudio Franchi, the goldsmith who crafted the ring said he hoped his work would not be destroyed once the pontiff stepped down.<br /><br />"I hope the ring is preserved and exhibited. It is a jewel that has so much symbolic value," Franchi said.<br /><br />Benedict was the first pontiff since the 19th century to commission a Fisherman's Ring, which shows St. Peter fishing and bore the inscription "Benedictus XVI", the pope's official title in Latin.</p>
<p>Pope Benedict XVI's gold papal ring, the symbol of his power used to officially seal documents and ensure their authenticity, has been cancelled, Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said.<br /><br /></p>.<p>Known as the Fisherman's Ring, it was due to be destroyed with a special silver hammer after Benedict's resignation Feb 28, symbolising the end of his authority.<br /><br />Earlier, Claudio Franchi, the goldsmith who crafted the ring said he hoped his work would not be destroyed once the pontiff stepped down.<br /><br />"I hope the ring is preserved and exhibited. It is a jewel that has so much symbolic value," Franchi said.<br /><br />Benedict was the first pontiff since the 19th century to commission a Fisherman's Ring, which shows St. Peter fishing and bore the inscription "Benedictus XVI", the pope's official title in Latin.</p>