The Copperplate Collection: How Masonic Certificate was Made

The use of copperplate printing technique can be dated back to the middle ages. A plated copper is engraved in fine detail by a skilled engraver, creating a mirrored illustration. By pressing the inked copperplate on parchment, it can create prints in large volume. Prior to modern printing technology, Masonic certificate was largely produced with this technique.

The copperplate is a much rarer artifact compare to the certificate and lithograph. Nonetheless, the four copperplates in the collection came from different origins and they were the significant parts of Masonic history. They are available on exhibit display and online museum.

 

Copperplate of Master Mason’s certificate of St. Simon and St. Jude Lodge No. 12 of Fishkill, New York. Engraver, P. R. Maverick. MW Edward M. L. Ehlers, Donor.

Copperplate of Knight Templar certificate from Ireland. A. P. Moriarity, Donor.

A copperplate for Masonic apron. Found in collection. Engraver unknown.

 

Copperplate of Grand Lodge of New York’s Master Mason Certificate. Found in collection. Engraver unknown.
A certificate in the Grand Lodge collection made of the copperplate above.