Lovely 1860s Hand-Engraved 14K Gold Member Lapel Badge for Once Exclusive Arion Society, New York

This is a circa 1860's member lapel badge for the once exclusive Arion Society of Manhattan. The badge is a lovely hand-engraved piece in tested 14 karat gold. The badge features Arion of Greek mythology, a young man rescued from pirates by a pair of dolphins. He is shown playing his lyre (kithara) even as he is spirited away to safety. The Arion Society, established around mid-century, eventually created a clubhouse in the grandest of buildings on Park Avenue and 59th Streets (photo credits: daytoninmanhattan.blogspot) in 1887, hosting renowned masquerades and fetes, and entertaining at least one president and prince among other notables. The Society closed its doors in 1917. 

Circa 1860s.

Approximately: 7/8" in height and 7/8" in width. (Almost same as a Quarter coin size)

14 karat gold (tested).

Horizontal T-style pin with C catch.

This is from a societies and organizations collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. VAEJX12 LGGEX1/13 UPDLGGEX11/24

8+ (Excellent): The badge is in beautiful condition with some minor wear.

As with all my artifacts, this piece is guaranteed to be original, as described.