A Collection of Irish Historical Medals, the Property of a Gentleman

Order of the FRIENDLY BROTHERS of St PATRICK, 1763, a gold member’s medal by J. Kirk after I. Gosset, St. Patrick’s Cross impressed with heart and crowned, rev. armorial shield with dolphin supporters, 30mm (D & W 632a). Pierced at top for (gold) suspension ring, extremely fine £500-£600

This lot was sold as part of a special collection, A Collection of Irish Historical Medals, the Property of a Gentleman.

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Provenance: Baldwin Auction, 9 February 2002, lot 301.

The Fundamental Laws, Statutes, and Constitutions of the Ancient and Most Benevolent Order of the Friendly Brothers of Saint Patrick was published in Dublin in 1763. The 'Friendly Brothers' were a mutual benefit society formed by Dublin merchants – members paid regular dues to the Order and in return were given financial support if they fell on hard times. The Order used quasi-masonic rituals and was organised in lodges. One of their rules was that members had to wear the medal of the order when attending lodge meetings

Artist uncertain