Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

Masonic Royal Arch Mark Medal
1814
Maker not marked
USA: Massachusetts
Silver
Overall: 4"h x 2-3/8"w x 1/16"d
Loaned by the Grand Lodge of Masons in Massachusetts
GL2004.0144

Masonic Royal Arch Mark Medal. Pierced sheet silver has compasses with loop at top; compasses points extend to bottom of quadrant; oval-shaped "ribbon" design around outer edge; center design is circle with five points reaching to outer "ribbon." Obverse on "ribbon" reads: "The Property of James Hay." In the center of the circle is Hay's mark, a box with lamb and flag. Flag resembles that of St. George. Lettering around the box reads, "MARK / Lodge / Groton / Massa." with "HTWSSTKS" around the edge of the circle. At bottom above quadrant is "5814." Reverse of jewel is very similar with "HTWSSTKS" and "MARK / Lodge / Groton / Massa." around the circle. The box in the center on this side is empty.

The Mark Medal is a sacred token of the rites of friendship and brotherly love that are a solemn obligation of the Mark Master degrees in Royal Arch Masonry. Mark Medals were personal possessions retained by Masons. The individual's mark - in this case, a lamb with a flag in a box - was placed within a circle of initials alluding to the ritual of the degree. The medal also includes the owner's name, the name of his mark lodge, and the date of his exaltation to the degree. This medal belonged to James Hay, a member of Mark Lodge in Groton, Massachusetts. He received the degree - and the medal - in 1814. For further information, see Newell, Aimee, et.al., "Curiosities of the Craft: Treasures from the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts Collection", 2013, p. 92-93.