Great Britain, United Kingdom, Masonic Medal 1988 - "Services Rendered" Medal

Gilded silver,
39.16 g,

Status: Not circulated (UNC).

The medal shown belongs to the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB), one of the largest fraternal societies in the United Kingdom, founded in 1822. This organization, similar in structure to Freemasonry but independent, is dedicated to charity and fraternity among its members.

Identifying elements:

• Inscription "RAOB": This corresponds to the order's initials.
• Bicolor ribbon: The design and colors of the ribbon vary according to the degree or recognized merit.
• Lower plate: This usually bears the name of the lodge (in this case, "Gainsborough LGE 106"), indicating the branch or local group to which the award recipient belonged.
• Shield with crown: The central shield is usually decorated with symbols specific to the order and, often, with inscriptions in Latin. The motto "Nemo Mortalium Omnibus Horis Sapit" ("No one is wise at all times") appears on several RAOB medals.
• Inscription "Services Rendered": Indicates that the medal was awarded for services rendered to the order or the community, a common recognition in these types of fraternal societies.
• Engraved reverse: It usually bears the name of the member and, sometimes, the date or reason for the recognition.