Beggar’s Bension society token

Aristocratic clubs in the UK in the 18th century were exclusive, male only societies that thrived on high stakes gambling, extravagant drinking, and in this case, bizarre rituals that flouted the social norms of the time. This is an extremely rare solid 18 carat gold pass for a high ranking member of the Beggar’s Benison club. The club was formed in Fife in Scotland in 1732 and was estimated to have around 500 members whose background reflected the interests of local powerful figures in landowning, business, law and customs. It was linked to kings and courtesans and its evocative name was toasted with a knowing wink at polite dinner parties. The society’s name means ‘Beggar’s blessing’. It came from a story about King James V who, while travelling disguised through Fife as a piper, came into difficulties trying to cross a burn. A beggar woman came to his rescue and carried her King to the opposite banks whereupon he paid for her help with a gold sovereign. In return she gave him her benison [blessing]’ : ‘May your purse ne’er be toom,  And your horn aye in bloom’.

Some historians believe the club also served to enhance the illicit trade of smuggling and spread the Jacobite cause. Many members were involved in evading English taxes on goods such as  brandy and tobacco. By inviting local judges and magistrates to be members of the club such activities were easier to facilitate. 

This gold token depicts on the obverse Adam and Eve holding hands, with motto : BE FRUITFULL AND MULTIPLY. To reverse Adonis with spear and dog standing behind a recumbent Venus attended by Cupid, with motto : LOSE NO OPPORTUNITY. The token measures 1 and 1/3 inches by one inch and is in immaculately crisp condition. It is exceptionally rare. The few other tokens for this society I have seen were silver gilt not gold. There is one similar gold example in the British Museum.

sold
Item ref : GS8

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another example in the British Museum below