penny/token

[lokie]

Hi, Just wondering if anybody can help me identify this token/penny. It looks like it might have something to do with the free masons. Thanks in advance.

 

[idahotokens]

When a man joined the Masonic Lodge ("to be one, ask one"), he was given a pocket piece like this one to identify him to others that he was indeed a member of this lodge. Most members put their "mark" in the center part. The piece is called a Masonic Penny, but there is no monetary value associated with it. Collectors, however, value them and often try to collect one per lodge per state.
John in ID

 

[PBK]

Welcome to TNet, Lokie. It's great to have you with us.

Your find is indeed a Masonic "chapter penny," a token belonging to a member of that fraternal order. The keystone, mallet, and chisel are all familiar symbols of Freemasonry The letters HTWSSTKS (forming a circle) are said to be the mark of the order's ancient Grand Master, and to stand for, "Hiram the widow's son sent to King Solomon." As John in ID has noted, the small space within the lettered circle is reserved for the member's own "mark"— i.e., initial(s) or some other personal symbol. Because of that, a token of this type is also known as a "mark penny."

 

[lokie]

Thank you both. Mystery solved. Iv'e had this for over ten years and always wondered it's story. I have some more items that i will post when i get a chance. Also i have a post in paper money maybe you can give me some insight on that to. And thank you for the welcome i think im going to like it here.