The Ring of the Fisherman, also known as the Piscatory Ring, is an official part of the regalia worn by the pope, who according to Catholic theology is the head of the Catholic Church and successor of Saint Peter, who was a fisherman by trade. It used to feature a bas-relief of Peter fishing from a boat, a symbolism derived from the tradition that the apostles were "fishers of men". The Fisherman's Ring is a signet used until 1842 to seal official documents signed by the pope. Since at least the Middle Ages it has been a tradition for Catholics meeting the pope to show their devotion by kissing the ring.
Pope Benedict XVI wearing his papal ring in 2005
Papal regalia and insignia
Papal regalia and insignia are the official items of attire and decoration proper to the Pope in his capacity as the visible head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State.
Pope Pius XII in papal regalia including the triregnum, falda and the mantum, while being carried on the sedia gestatoria and flanked by the flabellum
Pope Benedict XVI in papal vestments: The mitre, pallium, fanon, and the chasuble
Pope Leo XIII in papal regalia: The triregnum, falda, mantum, and the stole.
Pope Pius X (left) wearing the papal vestments at the episcopal consecration of Giacomo della Chiesa (later Benedict XV)