Mark Master Medal Collection

Ratirat Osiri

We are delighted to introduce the featured exhibit of the antique Masonic Medals, displaying the selection from our antique Mark Master Medal collection.

The precursor of chapter penny, Mark Master mason would own a Mark Master medal as their personal badge. Mark Master medal is usually a silver piece, with engraving of the owner’s name and his lodge or chapter on the obverse. On the reverse, the ‘Mark’ of the owner would be encircled by the letters: H. T. W. S. S. T. K. S., resembling the keystone symbol of the Royal Arch Masons.

Mark is a tradition derived from operative masons who each had their own mark as the unique signature to identify themselves in their masonry works.  After receiving their Mark Degree in Royal Arch Chapter, Mark Master Mason would create their Mark, commonly an imagery or symbol which associate with themselves personally. Their mark would then be recorded in the “Mark Book”.  The mark they have chosen would be assigned to them til the end of their Masonic journey.

 

Medal belonged to Benjamin Hatheway, member of St. George’s Lodge No. 6, in 1799. Engraved on the medal is his mark, a flaming heart inside the square and compass.

 

Mark Medal belonged to Daniel Long, circa 1824. Three candles engraved on the obverse.

 

 

Mark medal belonged to J. B. Hill, member of Washington Chapter No. 3. His mark, coffin and scythe is engraved on the medal made in the shape of keystone on top of square and compass.

 

The Mark Master Medal exhibit is on display at the library and is available on the online museum.

Reference:

Hamilton, John D. Material Culture of the American Freemasons. Scottish Rite Masonic Museum and Library, 1994.

Mackey, Albert G. Mackey’s Revised Encyclopedia of Freemasonry, edited by Robert I. Clegg, vol. 2, Macoy Publishing And Masonic Supply Company, New York, New York, 1946, pp. 621–625.