UK, R.A.O.B. Sterling Silver and Enamel Primo Jewel, 1952

A mid-20th-century fraternal jewel belonging to the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (R.A.O.B.) under the Grand Lodge of England (G.L.E.). This sterling silver and vitreous enamel piece is a Primo rank jewel, signifying the recipient’s first degree within the order. The item is named to Brother Frank Machin and is professionally engraved on the reverse: BRO. FRANK MACHIN RAISED 25-5-52 FESTIVAL LODGE 8372. The jewel comprises a wide blue silk ribbon with gold-embroidered monograms, a blue enamelled PRIMO top bar, and a FESTIVAL LODGE 8372 suspension bar. The central circular pendant features a laurel wreath border surmounted by a red enamelled crown, with a central motto ring reading JUSTICE TRUTH PHILANTHROPY. The reverse of the crown suspension bears a full set of British hallmarks for the maker Fattorini and Sons (F&S), the Birmingham assay office anchor, the lion passant for sterling silver, and the date letter C for 1952.